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Can You Grow Onion in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Onions grow well here — plant sets or transplants in early spring for a summer harvest.

Plant zones

2a–9b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Onions in California

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 10

Harvest

Apr 10 – May 10

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Onion

Onions are a staple crop that stores well and can be grown as sets transplants or from seed.

Growing from sets is easiest for beginners. Plant in early spring — onions are frost-tolerant. Day-length sensitive — choose short-day long-day or day-neutral varieties based on your latitude.

Full onion growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Onion in California?

Onions grow well here — plant sets or transplants in early spring for a summer harvest.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Onions in California?

Plant Onions around mid-January (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Apr 10 – May 10.