Scallions, also known as green onions or spring onions, are among the easiest kitchen crops to grow. They require little space, grow quickly, and can be harvested multiple times from the same plant. One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to grow scallions at home is by using bottles. Whether you’re reusing plastic bottles or glass jars, this method lets you start a productive scallion patch right on your windowsill, balcony, or kitchen counter.

Why Grow Scallions in Bottles?

Bottle propagation is an excellent way to reuse containers while growing a fresh supply of scallions. This method has several advantages:

  • Space-saving – Perfect for small kitchens, apartments, and balconies.

  • Low maintenance – Minimal soil and care are required.

  • Cost-effective – You can regrow scallions from kitchen scraps, reducing grocery expenses.

  • Sustainable – Reusing bottles helps reduce plastic waste while providing homegrown produce.

Scallions are hardy and grow well both indoors and outdoors, making them a perfect choice for beginners.

Materials You’ll Need

  • Clear plastic bottles (1–2 liters) or sturdy glass jars

  • Sharp scissors or a utility knife (for plastic bottles)

  • Potting mix or hydroponic medium

  • Scallion roots (store-bought scallions with white bulbs and roots intact) or scallion seeds

  • Water

  • Small stick or chopstick for planting support

Preparing the Bottles

  1. Cut the bottle – For soil planting, cut the bottle horizontally about one-third of the way from the top. The bottom section will hold the soil, and the top can act as a removable cover.

  2. Add drainage holes – If using soil, poke small holes at the bottom for water drainage. Skip this step for water-only regrowth.

  3. Clean thoroughly – Wash the bottle or jar to remove any residues that may harm plant growth.

Two Ways to Grow Scallions in Bottles

1. Water Regrowth from Kitchen Scraps

This is the fastest and most beginner-friendly method.

  • Trim scallions, leaving the white bulbs with roots intact.

  • Fill the bottle or jar with just enough water to cover the roots.

  • Place the scallion bulbs in the water with the roots submerged and the tops exposed.

  • Put the container in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill.

  • Change the water every 2–3 days to prevent bacterial growth.

Within a few days, green shoots will start to grow. You can harvest by trimming the leaves and allowing them to regrow multiple times.

2. Soil Planting for Longer Harvests

Soil-grown scallions tend to produce stronger, more flavorful greens.

  • Fill the bottom of your bottle with potting mix, leaving about 5 cm of space from the top.

  • Plant scallion bulbs or seeds about 2–3 cm deep.

  • Water lightly to moisten the soil without soaking it.

  • Place the bottle in a bright location with indirect sunlight.

With soil planting, you can continuously harvest the outer leaves while allowing the central shoots to keep growing.

Caring for Scallions in Bottles

  • Light – Scallions thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. A sunny window or balcony is ideal.

  • Watering – Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. For water-grown scallions, change the water regularly.

  • Feeding – For soil-grown scallions, add diluted liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks to encourage steady growth.

  • Air circulation – Good airflow prevents mold and mildew, especially in water-grown setups.

Harvesting Tips

  • Water-grown scallions – Begin harvesting once the shoots reach 15–20 cm tall. Cut only the top portion, leaving at least 5 cm above the roots for regrowth.

  • Soil-grown scallions – Harvest outer leaves first, or pull out the whole plant if you want the bulb as well.

With proper care, scallions in bottles can produce multiple harvests from the same plant, making them a long-lasting addition to your kitchen garden.

Extra Tips for Success

  • Use deeper bottles for growing multiple scallions together.

  • Rotate the container every few days to ensure even sunlight exposure.

  • For a decorative touch, use glass bottles so you can see the roots as they grow.

  • Combine both water and soil methods for continuous supply—start in water for quick growth, then transfer to soil for longer harvest life.

By propagating scallions in bottles, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown greens year-round without needing a large garden. This simple, eco-friendly method turns everyday containers into productive mini-gardens, ensuring that your kitchen always has a supply of crisp, flavorful scallions ready for cooking.

jardin