Regrowing green onions from the root ends is a simple way to reduce food waste and maintain a steady supply of fresh produce. This process uses the plant’s natural ability to regenerate from its basal plate, where the roots emerge. It is a sustainable practice that requires minimal space and can be accomplished indoors year-round. You can choose from two primary methods: regrowing in water for quick, short-term harvests or planting directly in soil for more robust, long-term growth.
Preparing the Cuttings and Supplies
Select the healthiest root bases from a fresh bunch of store-bought green onions. The goal is to retain the white, bulbous section with the roots attached, as this is the plant’s growth point.
Using a sharp knife or scissors, cut the green stalks off, leaving a white segment approximately one to two inches long. This segment must include the intact root plate.
Depending on your chosen method, you will need small, narrow glass jars for the water method, or a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix for the soil method. Gently rinse any dirt from the root bases before planting to prevent water cloudiness or the introduction of pathogens.
Method 1: Regrowing in Water
Regrowing green onions in water is the faster method, offering a simple setup for a rapid harvest. Place the prepared white root bases upright into a narrow glass jar or cup. Add just enough tap water to cover the roots completely, ensuring the cut top edge of the white stalk remains above the waterline.
The water must be refreshed frequently. Change the water every one to two days to prevent it from becoming stagnant, which encourages mold or bacteria growth that causes the roots to rot. Although this method yields green shoots quickly, the plants lack necessary nutrients, so the flavor and thickness of the regrown stalks will diminish over time.
Method 2: Planting Directly in Soil
Planting the cuttings directly into the soil offers a more sustainable solution, providing nutrients for a longer, more productive life cycle. Select a container that has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Fill the container with a quality, well-draining potting mix.
Bury the root bases about one to two inches deep into the soil, ensuring the white stalk is mostly covered, with the cut top barely visible above the surface. Gently compact the soil around the cuttings to secure them upright. The soil provides a stable environment and a source of micronutrients, leading to thicker, more flavorful regrowth compared to water-only cultivation.
Ongoing Care and Harvesting Techniques
Proper ongoing care is necessary to ensure continuous regrowth, regardless of whether you choose water or soil. Green onions require significant light to thrive. Place them in a sunny location, such as a south-facing windowsill, is highly beneficial. Aim for at least six hours of bright, direct sunlight daily to promote vigorous, upright growth and prevent the stalks from becoming pale and spindly.
For cuttings planted in soil, maintain consistent moisture by watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which is a common cause of failure. When harvesting, use clean scissors to snip the green stalk about a half-inch above the white root base or soil line. This technique leaves the growth point intact, allowing the plant to quickly regenerate new leaves for your next harvest.