Sturon
A dependable maincrop onion with good storage qualities and firm, globe-shaped bulbs.
When to plant Onions in Stirling
Allium cepa
A hardy allium for UK gardens, grown from sets. Plant spring sets for a summer crop, or named overwintering sets in autumn for an earlier lift. It needs free-draining soil, steady weeding, and a careful cure before storing.
45 cm · Full Sun · Moderate Water
Calibrated to Stirling · last frost ≈ 1 May
| Activity | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant out | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Harvest | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Growing guide
What to do through the growing season
Growing guide for
Change the guide to see different planting timelines and tips.
Plant named overwintering sets in free-draining soil for an earlier crop. Do not use spring sets.
01
Prepare the Bed
8 Aug to 22 AugPrepare the bed around 8th August - 22nd August. It must drain freely. Work in garden compost or well-rotted organic matter. Do not add fresh manure.
02
Plant Overwintering Sets
22 Aug to 3 OctPlant named overwintering sets around 22nd August - 3rd October, tips just showing. Do not plant spring sets. Space apart, in rows apart. Firm the soil. Water if it is dry.
- In a mild town, wait until the soil is cooling. Too much autumn leaf can raise the risk of bolting in spring.
- Birds lift sets. Cover with fleece or mesh until they root.
03
Keep Weed Free
22 Aug to 21 May 2027 Dates as each sowing reaches this stageFrom 22nd August to 21st May 2027, keep weeds down. Hand-weed close to the bulbs. Water in dry spells once growth restarts, then ease off when the leaves begin to yellow.
04
Lift and Cure Bulbs
29 May to 29 Aug 2027 Dates as each sowing reaches this stageLift bulbs through 29th May - 29th August 2027, when the tops yellow and fall over. Dry them somewhere warm and airy for two to three weeks, then trim the roots and loose tops before storing.
Suggested varieties
Popular varieties of Onion to consider
Red Baron
A reliable red onion with good colour and a steady crop from sets or transplants.
Senshyu Yellow
A well-known overwintering onion that can be planted in autumn for an early summer harvest in mild UK gardens.
Centurion
A widely grown, high-yielding set onion with good tolerance to bolting.
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