Candy

Onion

Zone 5b Save Garden

🌱 100d to harvest Bulbing

Honey-sweet and richly aromatic, Candy sweet onion forms large, globe-topped bulbs with a tender, juicy bite and a crisp, fine-gr…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 4th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 27th
Harvest Begins	Aug 5th
Harvest Ends	Oct 5th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	100
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)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Boston Lettuce

Cherokee Green Tomato

Brandywine (Sudduth's Strain) Tomato

Malbec Carrot

Royal Chantenay Carrot

Goliath Hybrid Tomato Tomato

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems on Allium cepa (bulb onion) and how do I treat them?

Onions (Allium cepa) commonly suffer from downy mildew and purple blotch, which show as gray/white patches or dark lesions on leaves. Remove and destroy infected foliage, avoid wetting the leaves, and improve airflow by spacing plants properly. If the problem is spreading, apply a labeled fungicide that’s approved for onions and follow label intervals closely.

How often should I water Allium cepa during bulbing (main growing phase)?

During bulbing, keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—typically about 1 inch of water per week, adjusted for heat and soil type. Water deeply so moisture reaches the root zone, then let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry slightly to prevent bulb rot. Stop regular watering as the tops begin to yellow and fall over, so the necks can dry for better storage.

How can I tell when Allium cepa bulbs are ready to harvest?

Harvest when about 50–75% of the onion tops have fallen over and the necks feel dry and tight. Bulbs should have formed papery skins; if you gently brush back soil, you should see full bulb size with no green, immature look. Lift with a fork to avoid cutting bulbs, then cure in a dry, airy place before storage.

Honey-sweet and richly aromatic, Candy sweet onion forms large, globe-topped bulbs with a tender, juicy bite and a crisp, fine-grained texture. Its mild flavor shines in fresh preparations, while its caramelizing sweetness makes it a standout for roasting and for turning into silky, golden sauces. Grow Candy for a harvest that feels as lush as it tastes—bulbs that store with confidence and reward the season’s patience.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For day-neutral onions like 'Candy Hybrid,' transplant only when soil is cool-to-moderate and keep spacing tight enough to form thick bulbs.