2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Onions in Nigeria
Complete guide to growing onions in Nigeria 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 Nigeria.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
15°C (59°F) minimum
Growing Period
90-120 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 Nigeria.
January
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
February - April
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
May - 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 Nigeria
These varieties have proven performance in Nigeria's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dan Eka | Nigeria climate |
| 2 | Dan Wuri | Nigeria climate |
| 3 | Red Creole | Nigeria climate |
| 4 | Galmi Violet | Nigeria climate |
Growing Tips for Nigeria
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Nigeria farmers.
Northern Nigeria (Sokoto, Kebbi, Kano, Jigawa) is onion belt
Dry season irrigated crop — fadama (floodplain) farming
Nigeria is Africa's #1 onion producer
Storage losses high — traditional rhumbu structures used
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
Nigeria 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 Nigeria?
The optimal planting window for onions in Nigeria is October 15 to December 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 15°C (59°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 90-120 days.
What varieties of onions grow best in Nigeria?
The best varieties for Nigeria include Dan Eka, Dan Wuri, Red Creole, Galmi Violet. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest onions in Nigeria?
The harvest window for onions in Nigeria is typically February 15 to April 30. The crop takes 90-120 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), IITA, and FAO Nigeria. 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.