When to Plant Scallions in Maine (2026 Guide)

Maine's climate offers unique opportunities to grow scallions, known for their speedy growth and versatility. With winter's chill retreating, the ideal time to start thinking about scallions aligns well with the region's frost dates. For gardeners in Zone 5b, the median last spring frost arrives on May 8, while those in Zone 6a see this date a bit earlier on April 27.

Scallions can be directly sown every 3–4 weeks from late April or early May through to the beginning of fall, which is significant considering the length of the frost-free season. By understanding the local climate characteristics, home gardeners can create a steady crop that will keep fresh greens on the dinner table throughout the growing season. As fall approaches, knowing that October 5 marks the last frost date in Zone 5b allows careful planning for the final harvest.

These resilient plants are excellent for enhancing the productivity of garden beds while providing the right flavor boost to numerous dishes. Whether you have a small container garden in Portland or a larger plot in Augusta, growing scallions offers a satisfying way to enjoy a continuous harvest throughout the growing months while minimizing potential gaps caused by Maine's unpredictable weather.

Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Maine

Zone	Indoor start	Transplant out	Direct sow	Harvest
Zone 5b	Start February 15 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before May 8	Transplant outdoors after May 8, once frost risk has passed	Direct sow from May 8 through September 1 for continuous growth	Harvest from June 10 through October 1 before the first frost
Zone 6a	Start indoor seeding from February 1 – February 15, ~6–8 weeks before April 27	Transplant outdoors after April 27, when the danger of frost is past	Direct sow from April 27 through September 15 for a late harvest	Harvest between June 1 and October 8, avoiding any frost damage

Scallions Planting Windows in Maine

Indoor start: For Maine gardeners, the indoor starting window for scallions runs from February 1 to March 1, depending on your USDA hardiness zone.
Transplant outdoors: Outdoor transplanting should be done after the last frost date, around May 8 for Zone 5b and April 27 for Zone 6a.
Harvest: Harvesting scallions can be done from June 1 through October 8, before the risk of frost sets in, particularly in more vulnerable areas.

Common Mistakes Growing Scallions in Maine

One common mistake in Maine is planting scallions too early in cool, wet soil, which can lead to rot. Waiting until the soil has warmed ensures better establishment and growth.
Overcrowding scallions is another trap many Maine gardeners fall into, thinking more seeds mean more harvest. In dense plantings, weak plants emerge, which can lead to disease and competition for nutrients.
Maine's coastal fog can create a misleading environment. Gardeners may think it is safe to plant earlier than the last frost, but the cool temperatures can still stunt growth; always rely on frost dates.
Many new growers in Maine underestimate the role of soil quality. With many regions having clay or alkaline soil, improving soil structure and pH can dramatically enhance scallion growth.
Not utilizing succession planting may lead to gaps in harvest. By sowing seeds every few weeks, Maine gardeners can ensure they have a continuous supply of scallions rather than a single large batch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I'm in a colder part of Maine?

If you're located in a colder section of Maine, consider starting scallion seeds indoors or using row covers once transplanted. This way, your plants can be sheltered from unexpected late frosts while still enjoying a longer growing season.

Can I still plant scallions in May?

Absolutely! In fact, May is an ideal time to direct sow scallions in Maine. Just be sure to watch for local frost conditions, especially if you're in areas with cooler microclimates.

How often should I plant scallions?

For a continuous harvest, plant scallions every 3–4 weeks. This staggered approach provides a fresh supply of scallions, keeping your dishes vibrant and flavorful throughout the growing season.

Can scallions survive a frost?

Yes, scallions are quite resilient and can tolerate light frost, down to about 28°F. However, if temperatures drop significantly, covering them with row cloth can protect your plants and prolong your harvest.

What's the best way to store scallions?

Fresh scallions prefer to be kept in the refrigerator to maintain crispness. Store them in a ventilated bag or wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel to keep them fresh longer, ideally for a week or more.