Red Candy Onion

Allium cepa ‘Red Candy’

Characteristics

Culture

Red Candy onion has proved to be a reliable red intermediate day onion year after year; it was developed by Dixondale Farms. Back in 2009, the “Onionman” became frustrated with the reliability of an intermediate day red variety so he decided he would just develop his own. Seed companies weren’t interested in producing this variety because it just won’t bolt and if an onion won’t bolt, then you can’t produce seed. They overcame that by making the seed production a two-year process which produced a remarkable seed crop. Although slightly smaller in size (3”), Red Candy onions can be pushed to grow larger in long days areas with additional nitrogen. Allow to grow to full maturity as Red Candy finishes strong. When planted in short and intermediate day areas, it produces larger bulbs. Makes a great red bulb to be sold early at the farmers’ market in all areas. What it lacks in size, it will make up in appearance and flavor. 

Red Candy Onion can be direct-seeded or transplanted, although transplanting is recommended.   Transplant onions 4-6″ apart. Onions are heavy feeders and will require significant nutrient inputs throughout their lifespan. 

Noteworthy Characteristics

Red Candy is a flavorful and pretty onion; its glossy-skinned red beauty adds color and sparkle to salads and recipes calling for a sweet, mild onion. The deep-red globe-shaped onion, with beautiful inner rings, delights with its remarkable sweetness.  

Problems

Click here for more information about disease issues and pests.

Uses

The ideal red variety for fresh eating or cooking, Red Candy Onion has a delicious flavor so sweet you can eat them raw, but will also add wonderful flavor to any recipe.