Drying off

Once onions have finished growing the leaves naturally begin to bend over at the top of the bulb before yellowing. At this stage gardeners can help the ripening process by gently forking beneath each bulb to disturb the roots. In good weather, the onions can be left on the ground to dry off, but in wet weather they should be placed on racks under well-ventilated cover.

Storing

They should then be stored in a cool airy place that's not too humid, otherwise the bulbs will eventually rot or sprout leaves. Place them in nets or hang them up in old tights or with the necks woven into strands of raffia.