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When to plant Onion in Washington County, GA

Washington County gardeners should plant Onion between March 7 and March 28 in spring. With Washington County's Zone 8b climate (last frost March 21), Onion needs 90–120 days to mature — plant by July 14 for a full harvest. A second sowing from September 2 to September 16 extends the harvest into fall.

When to Plant Onion in Washington County, GA

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.

Washington County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 235 days.

At an elevation of 277 feet, Washington County receives approximately 50.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Onion during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Onion, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Onion root diseases.

Washington County, GA (Zone 8b) Long season
235 days
Last Spring Frost March 21
235 growing days
First Fall Frost November 11

Washington County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

5.5-6.3

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Onion

Onion needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Onion Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 4.3" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 4.1" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Mar 4.3" 4.6" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Apr 4.3" 3.3" 1" 💧 Light watering
May 4.3" 3.6" 0.7" 💧 Light watering
Jun 4.3" 4.7" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Jul 4.3" 5.1" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Aug 4.3" 5.4" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Sep 4.3" 4.2" 0.1" 💧 Light watering
Oct 4.3" 3.6" 0.7" 💧 Light watering
Nov 4.3" 3.9" 0.4" 💧 Light watering
Dec 3.8" 0" ❄️ Dormant

Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Washington County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Onion Planting Timeline — Washington County, GA

Onion Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 14 Feb 14 – Feb 28
Transplant Outdoors March 21 Mar 21 – Apr 4
Direct Sow March 7 Mar 7 – Mar 28
Harvest June 20 Jun 20 – Aug 8
Fall Sowing September 2 Sep 2 – Sep 16

Plant 1" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February Start Indoors
March Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
April Transplant Outdoors
May
June Harvest
July Harvest
August Harvest
September Fall Sowing
October
November
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 8b

📆 Growing Season

235 days in Washington County

Growing Tips for Washington 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

  • Peas
  • Green Beans
  • Asparagus

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Onion in Washington County, GA?

Washington County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 21. Plan your Onion planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Washington County, GA?

Washington County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and first fall frost is November 11.

When should I plant Onion in Washington County, GA?

In Washington County, GA, plant Onion after the last frost (around March 21) and before the first frost (around November 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Washington County, GA for Onion?

Washington County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Onion grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Onion grow in Washington County's climate?

Yes — Onion grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 235-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 21 and first frost around November 11.

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Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Washington County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Washington County, GA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.

Sources & credits

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