Have you ever thrown away green onion roots without a second thought? Here’s some exciting news: you can regrow those kitchen scraps into fresh green onions right on your windowsill.
It’s simple, sustainable, and practically foolproof—even if you’ve never gardened before.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to grow green onions from scraps, step by step. Plus, you’ll discover tips to keep your green onions thriving and ready to harvest again and again.
Compare: How to Grow Green Onions Like a Pro
Why Grow Green Onions from Scraps?
Green onions, also known as scallions or spring onions, are among the easiest vegetables to regrow at home.
Here’s why gardeners and home cooks love this trick:
- 🌱 Fast Results: New green shoots can appear in just a couple of days.
- 🪴 Space-Saving: No need for a big backyard—just a jar and a sunny windowsill.
- 💰 Budget-Friendly: Reuse scraps and reduce grocery runs.
- 🌍 Eco-Friendly: It’s a great way to reduce food waste.
What You’ll Need to Regrow Green Onions
You won’t need any fancy equipment. Just grab:
- Green onion bottoms with roots (about 1–2 inches from the bulb)
- A clear jar or glass
- Clean water
- A sunny spot (like your kitchen window)
- Optional: a small pot with soil (if you want to transfer later)
Step-by-Step: How to Grow Green Onions from Scraps
Follow these steps to grow green onions from scraps:
Step 1: Save the Root Ends
When cooking, keep the white bottom portion of the green onion. Make sure the roots are still attached. You’ll need about 1–2 inches of the base.
Step 2: Place the Scraps in the Water
Place the onion bottoms root-side down in a small jar. Fill the container with just enough water to submerge the roots. Avoid covering the top of the bulbs.
Step 3: Set in a Sunny Spot
Put your jar on a sunny windowsill. Natural light is key to quick regrowth.
Step 4: Change the Water Every Few Days
Every 2–3 days, change the water to prevent bacteria and rot. Within 2–5 days, you’ll see green shoots growing straight up!
Step 5: Harvest When Ready
Once the shoots are 5–6 inches tall, snip them with clean scissors. Leave the white part and roots in the jar to regrow again.
Want to Grow Green Onions in Soil? Here’s How
After a couple of regrowth cycles in water, the roots might weaken. That’s when transferring them to soil can extend their life.
- Fill a small pot with well-draining potting soil.
- Make a hole and plant the rooted end about 1 inch deep.
- Water thoroughly and place the pot in partial to full sun.
- Harvest as needed and enjoy continuous regrowth!
How Many Times Can You Regrow Green Onions from Scraps?
Most green onion scraps can regrow 2 to 3 times in water. After that, the regrowth slows or weakens. Planting in soil gives them a longer lifespan, often lasting several weeks with proper care.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Green Onions from Scraps
Even though growing green onions from scraps is easy, watch out for these pitfalls:
🚫 Letting the water get slimy: Change it regularly to keep roots healthy.
☁️ Not enough light: Pale, spindly shoots mean they need more sunlight.
✂️ Cutting too close to the root: Leave enough of the white bulb for regrowth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I grow green onions from store-bought ones?
A: Yes! As long as the roots are intact, even grocery store green onions work perfectly.
Q: How long does it take to regrow green onions?
A: You’ll see growth in 2–3 days, with enough to harvest in about a week.
Q: Can I freeze the harvested greens?
Absolutely. Chop them up and freeze in an airtight container for later use in soups, stir-fries, or omelets.
Final Thoughts: Turn Scraps into Fresh Flavor
Learning how to grow green onions from scraps is one of the easiest ways to dip your toes into sustainable gardening.
Whether you’re in a small apartment or have a big backyard, this zero-waste method delivers fresh flavor straight from your windowsill.
So the next time you chop green onions, don’t throw away the bottoms—grow them instead! Perhaps, the best place to start is to grow your green onions indoors.