By Katherine Adam
NCAT Agriculture
Specialist
© 2006 NCAT
Alliums are a cool-season crop grown in most regions of the U.S. This publication addresses commercial
culinary alliums, except garlic. A brief history of the onion is presented and some of the major varieties, growing regions, and types of bulbs are presented. Marketing and economic considerations of the
varieties of dehydrator and fresh bulb onions are also discussed. Production and processing issues are
briefl y reviewed, as are crops such as shallots and leeks. Soils, climate, and planting considerations are
also discussed. Weed management and an overview of major pests and their control are also presented.
Post-harvest handling and storage issues are mentioned along with a brief review of current research.
References and resources follow the narrative.