Allium proliferum. This, like the Ciboule, is without a bulbous root, but throws out numerous offsets. Its top bulbs are greatly prized for pickling, being considered of superior flavour to the common onion for that purpose, as well as others in which that species is employed.

Time And Mode Of Planting

It is propagated both by the root offsets, which may be planted during March and April, or in September and October, and from the top bulbs, which are best planted in spring. The old roots are best to plant again for a crop of bulbs, as they are most certain to run to stems. If the bulbs be planted earlier than as above directed, they are apt to push up the same season and exhaust themselves, without producing either good offsets or bulbs; but, on the other hand, by planting the old roots in the previous autumn, or early in the spring, they will produce good bulbs the same year. They must be inserted in rows twelve inches asunder, in holes six inches apart and two deep, a single offset or bulb being put in each. Those planted in autumn will shoot up leaves early in the spring, and have their bulbs fit for gathering in June or the beginning of July; those inserted in the spring, will make their appearance later, and will be in production at the close of July or early in August; they must not, however, be gathered for keeping or planting until the stalks decay, at which time, or in the spring also, if only of one year's growth, the roots may be taken up and parted if required for planting; but when of two or three years' continuance, they must at all events be reduced in size, otherwise they grow in two large and spindling bunches; but the best plan is to make a fresh plantation annually with single offsets.

The only cultivation necessary is to keep them clear of weeds; and when the stems run up, to give them the support of stakes.

The bulbs, when gathered, must be gradually and carefully dried in a shady place; and if kept perfectly free from moisture, will continue in a good state until the following May.