The best bulb variety to sow outdoors in autumn for overwintering, producing quality bulbs, 120g (4oz) in weight. Ideal for the exhibitor as well as the kitchen. Good winter hardiness. Can also be spring sown, producing quality bulbs. Prefers rich, moist soil in an open situation.

Sow September outdoors or March-April for spring sowings. Sow thinly in a good, well prepared, free draining soil 1cm (½in) deep. For autumn sowings do not thin until the following spring.

Thin seedlings to 10cm (4in) apart, using the thinnings in salads. Keep bulbs well fed and watered throughout the growing season. When the leaves start to yellow and fall over, gently fork up the bulbs and leave on the soil surface to ripen.

Store dry, sound bulbs in onion nets, used tights or tied in strings in a cool, frost-free, airy place.