In the next couple of weeks, the air in Las Cruces and surrounding communities will be filled with the distinctive aroma of onions, one of the state’s most important vegetable crops.
The last week of May is the traditional start of the onion harvest season in southern New Mexico. Most production in New Mexico occurs in Dona Ana and Luna Counties. In 2014, 5,100 acres were harvested making New Mexico the eighth-highest onion producing state.
“Beneficial growing conditions this season have resulted in a strong crop with minimal pest and disease problems,” said Stephanie Walker, vegetable specialist with New Mexico State University’s Cooperative Extension Service.
Onions in New Mexico, as well as ongoing research projects, will be highlighted at this year’s Onion Field Day. The event is free of charge and will be held at the Fabian Garcia Research Center, near the main NMSU campus from 9-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 3. Registration and refreshments will begin at 8:30 a.m.
Topics will include insect pest and weed management, production strategies and the latest offerings from NMSU’s Onion Breeding Program.
A walking tour of the onion breeding plots also will be conducted.
For more information, contact Walker at 575-646-4398.
Information from NMSU