How to grow Spring Onion in the UK
Allium fistulosum
Spring Onion (Allium fistulosum) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Quick and easy. White Lisbon and Performer are bulletproof. This guide covers when and how to sow Spring Onion, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Spring Onion
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr Sow | May | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0 (neutral)
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 2.5 cm, rows 15 cm
- Sowing
- Sow little-and-often Mar–Aug
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pull as needed once pencil-thick
- Watch for
- Onion fly, downy mildew
Companion planting for Spring Onion
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Spring Onion to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Spring Onion FAQs
When should I sow Spring Onion in the UK?
In the UK, sow Spring Onion in March, April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Spring Onion?
Spring Onion grows well alongside Beetroot, Carrot, Lettuce, Strawberry, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Spring Onion?
Keep Spring Onion away from Asparagus Pea, Broad Bean, Dwarf French Bean, Lupin, Mangetout, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Spring Onion need?
Spring Onion prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Spring Onion ready to harvest?
Spring Onion is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August, September, October in the UK.
Is Spring Onion easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Quick and easy. White Lisbon and Performer are bulletproof.