Onion illustration 🧅

🧅 Growing Onion in Zone 12b

Zone 12b has a year-round growing season. Onion can be planted almost any time with proper planning. Last frost: Jan 1. First frost: Dec 31.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Oct 23Dec 31

Season: Jan 1 – Dec 31 (364 days)

Zone12b
Last FrostJan 1
First FrostDec 31
Season Length364 days
Days to Harvest110
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceModerate
Spacing9/sqft (4" apart)

When to Plant Onion in Zone 12b

Start Seeds Indoors: Oct 23

Start Onion seeds indoors around Oct 23 (10 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 70°F. Germinates in 7–14 days.

Transplant Outdoors: Dec 4

Transplant Onion seedlings outdoors after Dec 4. Wait until soil temperature reaches 45°F. Space plants at 9/sqft (4" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Feb 22

First harvest approximately Feb 22 (~80 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Dec 31).

Companion Planting

✅ Strawberries✅ Cabbage✅ Beets✅ Lettuce✅ Carrots✅ Tomatoes
❌ Beans❌ Peas

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Onion in Zone 12b?

Start Onion seeds indoors around Oct 23. Transplant outdoors after Dec 4. Expect first harvest around Feb 22.

What is the last frost date for Zone 12b?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 12b is Jan 1. The first fall frost averages Dec 31, giving a 364-day growing season.

Can I grow Onion in Zone 12b?

Yes. Onion needs 110 days to harvest. Zone 12b has a 364-day growing season, which is sufficient.

What is the best month to plant Onion in Zone 12b?

The best time to start Onion in Zone 12b is Oct. Begin seeds indoors around Oct 23, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Jan 1.

What companion plants grow well with Onion?

Good companion plants for Onion include Strawberries, Cabbage, Beets, Lettuce, Carrots, Tomatoes. Avoid planting Onion near Beans, Peas.

How long does Onion take to harvest?

Onion takes approximately 110 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 12b, expect your first harvest around Feb 22.

Plan Your Onion Garden

Track Onion from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Onion Growing Guide