When to Plant Onions for the Most Productive Harvests, According to Horticulturists

Onions can be a great vegetable for backyard and container gardens. They take up minimal space, and are relatively forgiving for beginners; plus, they attract few pests. They also make excellent companion plants for a variety of herbs and veggies.

However, choosing the right onion variety and knowing when to plant them can be a confusing process to navigate. To help guide first-time growers, we spoke with experts about how to determine which type of onion is best for you—along with tips and tricks for when to grow these delicious alliums.

Related: Your Guide to Planting, Growing, and Harvesting Onions

Onion Varieties
Onions are categorized differently than many vegetables, says Kassi Kuppinger, an avid gardener and the marketing manager for Bath Garden Center. There are short-day onions, intermediate-day (or day-neutral onions), and long-day onions, with different varieties in each of the three categories.

It's wise to choose the right variety for your region, says Sara Rubens, owner of Seed to Sanctuary. Short-day or intermediate-day onions do best in the south, and long-day onions thrive in the North.