Proper onion storage is crucial for optimal yields and a strong market position. How do you ensure your onions stay in top condition and get the best price? Syngenta Seeds onion expert Kees Jacobs shares his insights from a storage shed near Almkerk, where he explains the tricks of the trade.
Jacobs emphasizes the importance of good starting material. The Promotion variety is of excellent quality, suitable for medium-term storage, and forms an excellent foundation. But the real art lies in continuously monitoring the stock. "It's essential to use all your senses," Jacobs explains.
Use all your senses for optimal control
Smell, look, feel, and listen to your onions. Check for proper dryness, look for any irregularities in the batch, and be alert for the presence of pests. These signals provide early warning of whether action is needed to prevent quality loss. An unusual odor can indicate smouldering, while visual inspection reveals abnormalities in color or texture.
Internal inspection prevents depreciation
Besides external inspection, internal inspection is equally important. Jacobs recommends regularly cutting open a few onions and checking for signs of sprouting. "Sprouting significantly reduces the commercial value," he warns. "An onion that has begun to sprout is less attractive to buyers and will fetch a lower price." By proactively monitoring this, growers can make timely decisions about how to sell their crop.
Quality control as a negotiating tool
Thorough and proactive quality control is therefore not only a matter of good craftsmanship, but also of smart business. By knowing the exact condition of your onion inventory, you significantly strengthen your negotiating position with potential buyers. This allows you to negotiate a better price and maximize your harvest.
Watch the video and For more practical tips, please contact Kees Jacobs.