Preparing the Autumn Onion Bed

[MarkHackwell]

Soo this year I sort of failed with most stuff as didn't have the time during the spring due to working a full time job Soo going forward have decided to do some stuff in the quieter autumn and some in the busier spring.

I am looking into preparing the Autumn Onion Bed but can't decide what to use. I also want to put Garlic and Shallots in come September/October. My plots sit on Clay Soil so can become quite wet during the winter months.

Which would I be best with:

- Dig in some Multi-Purpose Compost and mix in some sand
- Dig in some Farm Manure
- Dig in some Mulch and Mix/Composted Bark
- Something else

I am just a little worried that I may put in too many nutrients and therefore won't get any bulbs

Thanks for the advice in advance

[bario1]

I would've thought farmyard manure would be ideal? Mix it in well though and leave it a few weeks to settle before planting... last year I buried raw 6X in rows and planted garlic on top, and it all split and was ruined - as you say, you can over fertilise!

[Snadger]

I don't think preparing the ground for onions is any different from other crops. Clay soils are usually full of nutrients so I would just concentrate on creating a good surface tilth in which to plant your sets. I practrice a no-dig regime hence I wouldn't dig in anything. I only add any organic matter to the surface, if I have it.

[burnie]

My dad had a clay soil and he improved it with old mushroom compost, is that still available? I have the opposite problem with sandy soil, but used council tip compost/soil improver to great effect, that would help without over fertilising.

[bario1]

Not much nutrients in mushroom compost, I thought onions were heavy feeders? Perhaps bfb or chicken manure pellets as well?