Non-Bolting Red

Onion

Zone 5a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Non-Bolting Red

🌱 90d to harvest Bulbing

A vivid, ruby-red bulb with a clean, non-bolting habit—Non-Bolting Red stays true through the cool season, building firm layers t…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 1st
Harvest Begins	Jul 30th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bulbing
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common for Allium cepa (bulbing onions), and what should I do first?

Onion thrips and downy mildew are frequent issues in Allium cepa, especially during warm, humid weather. Remove and destroy badly spotted leaves, then improve airflow by spacing bulbs properly and avoiding overhead watering. For thrips, use a strong water spray to knock them down and apply a labeled insecticidal soap or neem product according to the label, focusing on leaf bases.

How often should I water Allium cepa during the main growing phase?

During active bulbing, keep soil consistently evenly moist but not waterlogged—about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, adjusted for rainfall and heat. Let the top 1 inch of soil dry slightly between waterings, because soggy soil can trigger mildew and bulb rots. If leaves start yellowing and bulbs are well-formed, reduce watering gradually to help skins dry before harvest.

How can I tell when Allium cepa is ready to harvest?

Harvest when about half the tops have fallen over and the necks are soft-dry, with bulb skins papery and colored. Stop watering roughly 1–2 weeks before harvest to firm skins and reduce rot risk in storage. Lift carefully with a fork, cure bulbs in a warm, airy, shaded spot for 2–3 weeks, and store only fully dry onions.

A vivid, ruby-red bulb with a clean, non-bolting habit—Non-Bolting Red stays true through the cool season, building firm layers that feel substantial in the hand. Expect a balanced, sweet-on-the-surface flavor that deepens beautifully when roasted, while the crisp texture shines in fresh salads and bright relishes. Grow it for reliable harvests around 90 days, when the skins gleam and the necks settle for easy storage-ready bulbs.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For spring success, keep onions weed-free and aim for steady growth after planting—avoid drought stress to reduce the chance of bolting.