STOP throwing away slimy spring onions: A simple water trick keeps them fresh and crisp for weeks |
Spring onions are one of the quickest ingredients to spoil in the fridge. Many people buy a fresh bunch with good intentions, only to find wilted, slimy stems sitting sadly in the vegetable drawer a few days later. The frustration is real, especially when planning meals or trying to reduce grocery waste. The good news is that there is a surprisingly simple method that keeps spring onions fresh, crisp and bright green for far longer than traditional storage approaches. Instead of letting them dry out or suffocate inside plastic packaging, placing them upright in a tall glass of water can extend their life dramatically. With minimal effort and no special equipment required, this trick preserves texture, flavour and colour, helping households save money and always have fresh ingredients ready to cook with.
Why does storing spring onions in water work so effectively
Spring onions remain alive after harvesting, and their cells continue to function as long as their roots have access to moisture. When stored loose in the refrigerator, cold, dry air rapidly pulls water from the leaves, causing them to wilt, soften and collapse. The upright storage method solves this by keeping the roots submerged in water, allowing the plant to stay hydrated and maintain structure. This prevents the common problems of limp stalks and slimy layers that develop when stored in sealed plastic bags. The water acts as a natural support system, replicating what the plant would experience in soil, so the onions stay crisp for far longer than usual.
How to store spring onions using the tall glass water method
Rinse the spring onions lightly and remove any damaged outer layers. Trim the base slightly so the roots can absorb water more efficiently. Fill a tall glass or jar with two to three inches of clean water. Place the spring onions upright in the container with the roots fully submerged. Position the jar in the refrigerator or on the counter if you prefer visible regrowth. Change the water every two or three days to keep it fresh and prevent odour. If the leaves grow longer, trim them as needed for cooking. This small routine keeps the onions crisp, hydrated and ready for use without constant replacements.
Where to store the jar for the best results
A refrigerator shelf or door compartment works well because the cool environment slows natural ageing and keeps the stems firm and green. If counter space is preferred, place the jar near natural light to encourage regrowth when desired. In that case, more frequent water changes help maintain cleanliness. Both options allow the onions to stay upright, preventing bending and bruising that occur when stored flat or compressed.
Why this method reduces food waste and saves money
Spring onions rarely get used all at once, and buying fresh bunches repeatedly can become expensive. Allowing them to spoil means throwing away money as well as food. With the tall glass water method, each bunch lasts significantly longer, making planned meals easier and reducing unnecessary grocery trips. For people who cook often, this can lead to noticeable savings and less waste thrown into the bin.
Extra tips to keep spring onions crisp and flavourful
Do not fill the water level too high, as soaking more than the roots can cause stems to soften. Avoid sealing the tops tightly because trapped humidity encourages mould. For added freshness, lightly cover the tops with a breathable produce bag if desired. You can also regrow spring onions fully by placing the glass in sunlight, which encourages new green shoots to emerge from the existing bulbs.Stopping spring onions from turning slimy and unusable does not require special tools or complicated storage systems. Storing them upright in a tall glass of water is an effortless method that keeps them crisp, vibrant and full of flavour for weeks rather than days. It prevents waste, saves money and supports more flexible cooking. Try it once, and it will likely become a permanent kitchen habit.Disclaimer: This content is intended purely for informational use and is not a substitute for professional medical, nutritional or scientific advice. Always seek support from certified professionals for personalised recommendations.Also read| How to store mushrooms properly for freshness and flavour
