When to plant Onion in DeSoto County, FL
DeSoto County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Plant Onion between January 11 (after last frost on February 1) and February 1. A second sowing from October 25 to November 8 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Onion in DeSoto County, FL
Onions are a fundamental kitchen staple available in yellow, white, and red varieties. Choose long-day, short-day, or intermediate types based on your latitude.
DeSoto County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 1 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 322 days.
At an elevation of 214 feet, DeSoto County receives approximately 53.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Onion may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Onion will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Onion root diseases.
DeSoto County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Onion Planting Timeline — DeSoto County, FL
Onion Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 4 | Jan 4 – Jan 18 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 1 | Feb 1 – Feb 15 |
| Direct Sow | January 11 | Jan 11 – Feb 1 |
| Harvest | May 3 | May 3 – Jun 21 |
| Fall Sowing | October 25 | Oct 25 – Nov 8 |
Plant 1" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | Fall Sowing |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
322 days in DeSoto County
Growing Tips for DeSoto County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before transplanting. Match day-length type to your latitude. Stop watering when tops begin to fall over and cure bulbs for 2-3 weeks before storage.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Onion in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Onion in DeSoto County, FL?
DeSoto County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 1. Plan your Onion planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeSoto County, FL?
DeSoto County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 1 and first fall frost is December 20.
When should I plant Onion in DeSoto County, FL?
In DeSoto County, FL, plant Onion after the last frost (around February 1) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is DeSoto County, FL for Onion?
DeSoto County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Onion grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Onion grow in DeSoto County's climate?
Yes — Onion grows well in DeSoto County's temperate climate. DeSoto County averages a 323-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 1 and first frost around December 20.
Your DeSoto County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeSoto County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.