[Lulu]

I planted a set of onions last autumn, as per instructions on the packet and they currenly just look like big spring onions? I thought I would be having a lovely crop of onions by now - this is the first time I've tried it.  I feel a bit of a nitwit having to ask this but will they become proper onions  and about when should I be harvesting.  (Of course I threw the packet away- silly Lulu!!) :?

[WG.]

Autumn-sown sets should be ready to lift around July.  You can plant spring-sown varieties now to be ready in Sep/Oct.   Spring-sown varieties store better and should keep you going through the winter.

[DD.]

As WG says, the winter ones don't store, so once they are a useable size, I start pulling them up to use, around May onwards. They may be smaller, but it's better than having a load of rotting big ones!

Down here my spring sown ones are usually ready to lift in August.

[WG.]

Reason I grow onions from autumn-sown sets is to have them ready early for the pickling/chutney season.  Most of my Jap Onions go into piccalilli so I need them when the courgettes and cauliflower are ready.  And, yes, I do make very large quantities of organic piccalilli 'cos I barter it for other things.  

[Lulu]

Thanks for the tips so far, I think half will go into the compost to make way for other stuff as space is a restriction at the moment, and I will see what happens to the rest.  Life is a bit onion adventure.

[DD.]

I think half will go into the compost

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

If you must pull them up, you can still use them. They may be small,but you can still use them to give a bit of zing to some dishes, even the tender green bits.

[agapanthus]

Thanks for the tips so far, I think half will go into the compost quote]
Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo too!!!!!!
Eat them as spring onions, use in any salad or just cook 'em..d'ont chuck 'em!!!!!  
God I feel faint now!!!!!

[Lulu]

OK - you have saved them!!  thanks very much for responses