When to Plant Onion in Zone 5
Allium cepa
Last updated: Apr 25, 2026 · Sources: USDA, NOAA, Cooperative ExtensionZone 5 Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
Apr 2
6–8 weeks before transplant
Transplant Out
Apr 30
After last frost (Apr 30)
Direct Sow
Apr 30
Directly in garden bed
First Harvest
Aug 8
90–120 days after planting
Season Ends
Oct 2
Before first frost (Oct 5)
Quick Facts
Sunlight
☀️ Full Sun
Water Needs
💧💧 Moderate
Spacing
6 inches apart
Planting Depth
1.0 inch
Min Soil Temp
35°F
Germination
7–14 days
Days to Maturity
90–120 days
Frost Tolerance
Heavy frost tolerance
Soil pH
6.0–7.0
Difficulty
Moderate
Recommended for Zone 5
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Beans Peas
Onion Schedule — All Zones
| Zone | Start Indoors | Transplant | Direct Sow | Harvest Start | Harvest End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 3 | Apr 17 | May 15 | May 15 | Aug 23 | Sep 12 |
| Zone 4 | Apr 12 | May 10 | May 10 | Aug 18 | Sep 22 |
| Zone 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | Aug 8 | Oct 2 |
| Zone 6 | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jul 24 | Sep 22 |
| Zone 7 | Mar 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | Jul 14 | Sep 12 |
| Zone 8 | Feb 20 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | Jun 28 | Aug 27 |
| Zone 9 | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | Jun 8 | Aug 7 |
| Zone 10 | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | May 21 | Jul 20 |
| Zone 11 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Jan 15 | Apr 25 | Jun 24 |
📚 Data Sources
Frost dates: NOAA Climate Normals 1991–2020, National Centers for Environmental Information.Hardiness zones: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, Agricultural Research Service.
Growing requirements: Cooperative Extension Services — NC State, Penn State, University of Florida IFAS.
Companion planting: Cornell University Cooperative Extension.
Data compiled from public agricultural sources. Always verify with your local extension office for micro-climate adjustments.