Onions

      Onions are another important crop here in Owyhee County. They sprouted a couple of weeks back, but until now they looked pretty much like grass and in a lot of ways still do.

      They're not grass, though. They're an allium along with garlic and leeks. One of the major characteristics of this group is the leaves.

     They're round and hollow. You might have already known that, especially if you've ever done any cooking. They grow in a small bunch from the top of the bulb (The round tasty part that we usually eat.) The bulb remains below ground while the onion grows.
     Onions generally aren't planted this close together. When I asked the farmer what inspired the change in practice, he would only tell me that he was "trying something." A magician never gives away his secrets, you know. I hope the gamble pays off for him. Until that time comes, though, these little onions have a lot of growing to do.