MISSION, TX - Every great harvest begins with a seed, and for Texas growers, October 15 marked the day it all began. The South Texas Onion Committee (STOC) celebrated TX1015 Sweet Onion Day, honoring the date that gave Texas' most famous sweet onion both its name and its legacy.
Recognized as the Official State Vegetable of Texas, the TX1015 Sweet Onion has become a symbol of the state's agricultural heritage and innovation. Known for its signature sweetness, low pungency, and Texas-grown roots, it was developed specifically for South Texas growing conditions. The TX1015 Sweet Onion has since earned a loyal following among home cooks, chefs, and retailers.
"The story of the TX1015 Sweet Onion starts in the field every October," said Dante Galeazzi, President of the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), in the recent release. "TX1015 Sweet Onion Day recognizes the growers whose work begins months before consumers ever see the first sweet onions on grocery store shelves. It's a celebration of Texas agriculture and the commitment that goes into producing one of our state's most iconic crops."
The name "1015" traces back to the recommended planting date of October 15, established through research led by Texas A&M University horticulturists Dr. Leonard Pike and Dr. Paul Leeper, whose work developed the sweet onion varieties that would become synonymous with Texas quality. Planted during the mild South Texas fall, the onions slowly mature through the winter before reaching peak harvest beginning each March.
Today, TX1015 Sweet Onions are grown throughout the Rio Grande Valley and the Winter Garden (Uvalde) regions, where generations of growers continue the tradition of producing the first domestically grown sweet onions of the season. Their naturally low pungency, exceptional sweetness, and limited seasonal availability make them a favorite among consumers, retailers, and chefs alike.
The South Texas Onion Committee reminds consumers to celebrate TX1015 Sweet Onion Day by learning more about the history of Texas sweet onions and following along as the next crop begins its journey from seed to harvest. Seasonal updates, grower stories, recipes, and educational content will be shared throughout the growing season at TX1015.com and on social media at @TX1015Onions.
