The onion scales take on a grayish watery texture making them appear translucent. All scales can be affected, however, typically only the second and third fleshy scales exhibit symptoms.

Leathery, water soaked outer scales and skins occur in the field prior to harvest. If a period of heavy rainfall follows a period of drought during bulb development, these symptoms might occur.

Translucent scale typically appears after harvest and worsens after 3-4 months of bulb storage. The onion scales take on a grayish watery texture making them appear translucent. All scales can be affected, however, typically only the second and third fleshy scales exhibit symptoms.