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Can You Grow Onion in Michigan?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Onions in Michigan

Start indoors

Feb 9

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jul 6 – Aug 5

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan'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 Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.

See what grows well in Michigan →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Onion in Michigan?

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

What zone is Michigan?

Michigan spans USDA Zone 5b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a).

When do you plant Onions in Michigan?

Plant Onions around early April (start indoors Feb 9), harvest Jul 6 – Aug 5.