2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Onions in India
Complete guide to growing onions in India with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the onions growing season in India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
12°C (54°F) minimum
Growing Period
120-150 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing onions in India.
January
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
February - May
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
June - September
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
October - December
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
Best Onions Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nasik Red | India climate |
| 2 | Agrifound Dark Red | India climate |
| 3 | Pusa Riddhi | India climate |
| 4 | Bhima Shakti | India climate |
| 5 | Arka Niketan | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
India is world's #2 onion producer — Maharashtra (Nasik) and Karnataka lead
Rabi (late Kharif) crop is primary season
Kharif onions (June transplant) for monsoon season
Thrips tabaci — threshold 10 thrips/plant, spray Fipronil or Spinosad
Storage losses 25-30% — improve with cold storage at 0-2°C
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Thrips
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Onion maggot
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Purple blotch
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Downy mildew
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Stemphylium blight
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside onions, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
India has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant onions in India?
The optimal planting window for onions in India is October 15 to December 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 12°C (54°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 120-150 days.
What varieties of onions grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Nasik Red, Agrifound Dark Red, Pusa Riddhi, Bhima Shakti, Arka Niketan. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest onions in India?
The harvest window for onions in India is typically February 15 to May 31. The crop takes 120-150 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.