Live to Plant

How to Save a Dying Green Onion Plant

Updated: February 13, 2023

Green onions, also known as scallions, are a versatile and flavorful addition to many dishes. They are easy to grow, but sometimes even the most well-cared-for plants can start to wilt and die. If you’re noticing that your green onion plant is struggling, don’t worry! There are several things you can do to bring it back to life.

Assess the Situation

Before you take any steps to revive your green onion plant, it’s important to assess the situation. Here are some things to consider:

  • Is the soil dry or waterlogged?
  • Has the plant been over or under fertilized?
  • Has the plant been exposed to extreme temperatures or sunlight?
  • Is there any sign of disease or pests?
  • Are there any other plants nearby that could be competing for nutrients?

Once you have a better understanding of what could be causing the problem, you can take steps to address it.

Watering

One of the most common reasons why green onion plants die is due to improper watering. If the soil is too dry, the plant will start to wilt and eventually die. On the other hand, if the soil is waterlogged, the roots may start to rot.

To determine whether your plant needs watering, stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. When watering, make sure you give the plant enough water so that it drains out of the bottom of the pot. This will help prevent water from pooling around the roots.

Fertilizing

Green onions don’t need a lot of fertilizer, but they do require some nutrients to grow properly. If your plant is looking weak or yellow, it may be a sign that it needs more fertilizer.

Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can either use a liquid fertilizer or sprinkle a slow-release fertilizer around the base of the plant. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to burned roots and other problems.

Sunlight

Green onions need plenty of sunlight to grow, but too much direct sunlight can be harmful. If your plant is in a location that gets too much sun, it may start to wilt and yellow.

Move the plant to a location that gets partial sun or provide some shade with a light cloth or umbrella. Make sure the plant still gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.

Pests and Disease

If you’ve ruled out watering, fertilizing, and sunlight as causes for your plant’s decline, it may be time to check for pests or disease.

Inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of damage or discoloration. Look for pests such as aphids, spider mites, or thrips. If you see any signs of pests or disease, treat the plant immediately with an organic insecticide or fungicide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my green onion plant?

It depends on the size of your pot and the environment it’s in. Generally, you should water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I use a regular fertilizer on my green onion plant?

Yes, but make sure it’s balanced with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

What should I do if my green onion plant is wilting?

Check the soil for moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Move the plant to a location with less direct sunlight if necessary.

Can I grow green onions indoors?

Yes! Green onions can be grown indoors in a pot or container with good drainage.

Saving a dying green onion plant requires some patience and attention to detail. By addressing the root cause of the problem, you can bring your plant back to life and enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, flavorful scallions.