SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Ringmaster

Onion
Botanical illustration of Ringmaster
🌱 85d to harvest Bulbing

Sweetly aromatic and beautifully mild, Ringmaster white onions develop into perfectly rounded bulbs with a clean, satin-smooth sk…

Planting Schedule

Add Ringmaster to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsDirect Sow
Last FrostMar 6th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsMar 6th
Harvest BeginsMay 30th
Harvest EndsNov 26th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity85
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitBulbing
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)45
Min Night Temp (°F)28
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions


What pest or disease is most common on Allium cepa (onion) and how can I treat it?
Onions are commonly hit by purple blotch (Alternaria porri) which shows as elongated purple-brown spots on leaves and can spread quickly in wet weather. Remove and discard infected leaves, improve airflow, and avoid overhead watering; you can also apply a labeled fungicide for onions if conditions are staying humid and the disease is spreading. Keep beds weed-free so foliage dries faster between rain or irrigation events.
How often should I water Allium cepa during the main bulbing phase, and what soil moisture target should I aim for?
During bulbing (typically mid-season through about the last few weeks before harvest), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, split into 2–3 irrigations if it’s hot. If the soil stays soggy or you see leaf-yellowing with slow growth, reduce watering; if the leaves droop or grow stops, increase frequency to maintain consistent moisture. A simple check: the top 1 inch of soil should feel dry before you water again, while deeper soil remains lightly moist.
How do I tell when my Allium cepa is ready to harvest?
Harvest when most of the tops (usually about 50–70%) have fallen over and the necks start to soften, while bulbs have filled out and show papery skin. Stop watering around 1–2 weeks before harvest to help skins dry and cure properly. Lift carefully so you don’t cut the bulbs, and cure them in a warm, airy spot until the outer skins are crisp.
Botanical illustration of Ringmaster

Sweetly aromatic and beautifully mild, Ringmaster white onions develop into perfectly rounded bulbs with a clean, satin-smooth skin and a crisp, juicy bite. Their flavor stays bright rather than sharp, making them especially inviting for fresh use, roasting, and caramelizing into golden sweetness. Grow Ringmaster for dependable, uniform harvests—bulbs that store with confidence and shine in everything from skillet favorites to tangy pickles.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

For large, uniform bulbs, keep soil evenly moist and avoid heavy nitrogen late in the season once tops are established.