This section is from "The Horticulturist, And Journal Of Rural Art And Rural Taste", by P. Barry, A. J. Downing, J. Jay Smith, Peter B. Mead, F. W. Woodward, Henry T. Williams. Also available from Amazon: Horticulturist and Journal of Rural Art and Rural Taste.
This variety is distinct in habit from the other kinds. It differs in the producing of a number of offsets, or side bulbs, each of which, with good culture, is like to the one planted. The distance apart may be nine inches by fifteen inches, and the bulbs require to be planted deeper in the ground. The crop is also improved by covering up with the hoe some three inches during growth, from which peculiarity it is sometimes called the Underground Onion.
Welsh and Tree Onions are also distinct, bat are only of use in very cold countries, and, consequently, not worthy of more than a passing notice.
To save seed, choose the handsomest bulbs that are true to character, plant one foot apart, and four inches deep, early in spring. When the flower heads are fully developed, tie up to small stakes, or fix a few low branches amongst the plants, which will prevent the wind or rain storms from breaking them. When the seeds begin to turn black, cut off the heads, lay them in a dry room for a time, when they may be rubbed out, and packed away in paper bags.
 
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