Onion PMS 205 is a high-performing variety well-suited for Indian conditions, known for uniform bulb formation and excellent shelf life. Growing it in containers is totally doable—even for beginners! Here's your complete guide:
Best Time to Sow
Ideal Sowing Months:
North India: October to December
South India: September to January
Prefers cool to moderate weather (15°C–25°C)
Container Requirements
Depth: At least 8–10 inches
Width: Go for wider pots or grow bags (more room = better bulbs)
Must have drainage holes
Tip: One 12–15 inch pot can grow about 6–8 onion plants comfortably.
Soil Mix
Use loose, fertile, and well-draining soil:
40% garden soil
30% compost/vermicompost
30% cocopeat or sand
👉 Add a handful of wood ash or bone meal to encourage better bulb formation.
Sowing the Seeds
Sow seeds about 1 cm deep, spaced evenly
Cover lightly with soil or cocopeat and mist water gently
Seeds germinate in 7–10 days
Once seedlings are 3–4 inches tall, thin them out to leave 3–4 inches of space between each plant for bulb growth.
Sunlight
Needs 6–7 hours of direct sunlight daily
Best grown on balconies, terraces, or window sills with full sun
Watering
Keep soil moist but not soggy
Water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry
Reduce watering when bulbs start to form to avoid rot
Feeding
Add compost or liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks
Avoid too much nitrogen—this leads to leafy growth but small bulbs
Harvesting
Green onions: Ready in 30–40 days
Bulb onions: Ready in 90–100 days
Harvest when leaves yellow and topple over naturally
Pests & Protection
Watch for thrips, onion flies, and fungal spots
Spray neem oil (5 ml/liter) once every 10–15 days as a natural pest control
Ensure proper airflow around plants to prevent diseases