Growing Onions in Zone 4A

Onions are a garden staple. Choose the right day-length variety for your latitude for best results.

Zone 4A has a short growing season — start seeds indoors when possible and use season-extending techniques like cold frames and row covers.

Top Growing Tips

• Short-day varieties for zones 7+ (south), long-day for zones 6 and north
• Start from sets (small bulbs) for easiest results
• Stop watering when tops start to fall over
• Cure in a warm, dry spot for 2-3 weeks before storing
• Day-neutral varieties work in any zone

Companion Planting

Good companions: beets, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, chamomile

Avoid planting near: beans, peas

Harvest Timeline

90-120 days from sets, 100-175 days from seed

About Zone 4A

USDA Hardiness Zone 4A has an average last spring frost around May 8 and first fall frost around Sep 25. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.