When to Plant Scallions in Virginia (2026 Guide)
Planting scallions in Virginia is not only rewarding but fits perfectly into the state's climate. With varied frost dates across zones, knowing the optimal planting schedule is crucial to maximizing your harvest. For instance, in Zone 6b, the last spring frost occurs around April 10, while in Zone 7a, you can expect it as early as March 26.
Scallions, or green onions, are a versatile crop that can thrive in cooler temperatures, making spring and fall ideal for planting in Virginia's diverse climates. Their fast-growing nature means you'll enjoy fresh, homegrown scallions in no time. Plus, they can be sown successively every 3 to 4 weeks for a continuous harvest throughout the season.
Whether you're in urban settings like Alexandria or rural areas, scallions are an easy addition to any garden. For Virginia gardeners, understanding when to start seeds indoors and when to transplant them outdoors is key, ensuring that your scallions are harvested before the first fall frost of October 26 in Zone 6b.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Virginia
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 6b | Start March 1 – March 15, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | Transplant outdoors after April 10 | Direct sow from April 10 to September 15 | Harvest from June 1 to October 20 |
| Zone 7a | Start February 15 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before March 26 | Transplant outdoors after March 26 | Direct sow from March 26 to September 15 | Harvest from May 15 to November 20 |
| Zone 6a | Start March 15 – March 30, ~6–8 weeks before April 20 | Transplant outdoors after April 20 | Direct sow from April 20 to September 10 | Harvest from June 25 to October 20 |
Scallions Planting Windows in Virginia
- Indoor start: For optimal growth, start scallion seeds indoors between March 1 and March 15 in Zone 6b and from February 15 to March 1 in Zone 7a.
- Transplant outdoors: Transplant scallions outdoors after the last frost in Virginia, which occurs on April 10 in Zone 6b and March 26 in Zone 7a.
- Harvest: Harvest your scallions between June 1 and October 20 in Zone 6b, with a longer season extending through November 20 in Zone 7a.
Common Mistakes Growing Scallions in Virginia
- One common mistake is planting scallions too early in Virginia's unpredictable spring weather. Late frosts can occur, and planting ahead of the last frost date may lead to crop failure.
- Gardeners often attempt to grow scallions in less-than-ideal soil conditions typical in Virginia, such as clay or alkaline soils. Amend soil with compost to improve drainage and nutrient content.
- A frequent error is forgetting to account for humidity levels in Virginia during the summer. High humidity can lead to disease; ensure good air circulation by not planting too densely.
- Many local gardeners overlook the benefit of succession planting. Instead of sowing all scallions at once, sowing every 3–4 weeks can yield a constant supply throughout the growing season.
- Some Virginia gardeners mistakenly believe scallions should only be grown in large garden beds. In reality, they thrive in containers and can be grown in small spaces, maximizing every square foot in your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm in a cold pocket of Virginia?
If you're gardening in a colder region of Virginia, consider using row covers to protect young scallions during unexpected cold spells. This will extend your growing season and allow for successful germination.
Can I still plant scallions in May?
Yes, you can plant scallions in May, especially in Zone 7a where the last frost is early. Just be mindful of summer heat, which can shorten their growth if temperatures rise significantly.
How deep should I plant scallion seeds?
Scallion seeds should generally be sown about ¼ to ½ inch deep. This depth allows them to receive enough warmth and moisture, promoting quick germination and healthy growth.
Do scallions need direct sunlight?
Yes, scallions thrive best in full sunlight, which equates to about 6 to 8 hours a day. Ensure that you choose a spot in your garden or on your patio that receives adequate direct sunlight.
Can scallions regrow after being cut?
Absolutely! Scallions are among the few vegetables that can regrow. Just leave an inch or two of the white base with roots and place it in water or moist soil for fresh green growth in a few days.
Keep Learning
City guides in Virginia
Other crops in Virginia
Typical fall sowing window for Scallions in Virginia: August 14 – September 4.