How to Regrow Green Onions From Scraps

Food waste is one of the biggest problems we face today, but there are many ways to make an impact. We'll show you how to regrow green onions so you can reduce your food waste while also saving money.

Why should you regrow green onions? This kitchen hack is not just a fancy way to amaze your family and friends with your gardening skills, but saves you time and money while reducing waste. It’s also a great place to start if you’re looking to move towards a zero waste kitchen.

Green onions are also known as spring onions or scallions. In theory, you can keep cutting the tops of your planted scallions and keep growing them forever. Some say green onions can regrow an estimated four times before you need to start again with a new plant, while others have kept them alive for 2 years. 

Plus, there’s no need to rush to the supermarket when you have a self-replenishing source of scallions for recipes and garnishes whenever you need them. Not only is this an added benefit for you, but also for the environment as you regrow locally, at home. You won’t have to chuck out your forgotten half-used bunch of green onions either. 

How to Regrow Green Onions in Water

When we buy green onions from the store we often buy them with their roots and bulb intact – because of this, it couldn’t be simpler to regrow them. 

You will need:

• Green onions cut to around 1 inch above the roots & bulb (as many as you desire)
• 1 glass of water
• 1 glass jar

How to Regrow Green Onions in Water:

1. Cut and use your green onions until approximately the last inch with the bulbs and roots intact.
2. Place the bulbs in a jar and cover with at least half an inch of water. 
3. Change the water every few days.
4. As they grow, cut off what you need.

Notes:

• Depending on what you have at home, you might want to adapt the pot/jar based on the growth of your scallions. For example, you may want to start in a small plastic cup and adjust as the plants grow larger. 
• The outer layer of the scallion might become slimy, especially after regrowing a few times. You can gently peel it off to get a fresh layer. 
• The roots can also be cut down if they get too long – aim for about 1 inch.

How to Regrow Green Onions in Soil

While the green onions can regrow a few times in water, after a while they might start to get a bit slimy. Plus switching your green onions to the soil after about a week’s growth can ensure they get more nutrients. If you protect them from snow and frost, they can last a long time.

You will need:

• Green onions at least 1 inch tall (as many as you desire)
• Soil
• A plant pot

How to Regrow Green Onions in Soil:

1. Wash your green onions
2. Add soil to plant pot and water 
3. Make a few holes in the soil and leave around 1 1/2 inches between each hole.
4. Plant your green onions.
5. Water and wait for them to grow.
6. Cut off the tops and harvest what you need.

Read on:

• Can You Eat Wild Onions? Here’s What to Look Out For
• What to Do With Sprouted Onions
• Leftover Mashed Potato Ideas: 3 Delicious Recipes

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Tags: Green Living Guide Practical Tips Waste