Onion 'Bedfordshire Champion'

A quintessential British heritage onion variety that has been a staple of UK allotments for over a century. 'Bedfordshire Champion' is a reliable maincrop onion known for producing large, globe-shaped bulbs with crisp, white flesh and a golden-brown skin. It is particularly valued for its excellent storing qualities, often remaining in peak condition until the following spring if kept in a cool, dry place. This variety is traditionally grown from seed, which allows for better disease resistance compared to sets, though it requires an early start in February under glass or a March sowing outdoors. It is remarkably well-adapted to the British climate and shows good resistance to onion fly and downy mildew. The flavour is strong and traditional, making it perfect for cooking in stews or caramelising. It requires a firm, sun-drenched seedbed and benefit from an application of balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage large bulb development.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, fertile, firm soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.