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Can You Grow Onion in North Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Onions in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 3

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

May 29 – Jun 28

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Onion in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Onions in North Carolina?

Plant Onions around late February (start indoors Jan 3), harvest May 29 – Jun 28.