How to Grow Scallion
Scallion
Allium fistulosum
vegetableScallions are non-bulbing onions that produce slender, elongated white bases and green tops, harvested before bulb formation. They have a mild onion flavor and are used fresh in salads, garnishes, and cooked dishes. Hardy, fast-growing, and ideal for continuous harvesting throughout the season.
Looking for a specific variety?
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; can be grown year-round in zones 8-10
Sign up to see your zone highlighted.
Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny green shoots emerge 7-10 days after planting; resembles fine grass or chives with thin, delicate leaves
Keep soil consistently moist; thin seedlings to prevent crowding; provide bright light; maintain 60-70°F for optimal germination
Early Vegetative
2-3 weeksYoung plants develop 2-3 true leaves; white base begins to form at soil level; green tops are 2-3 inches tall
Maintain even moisture; begin light fertilizing with balanced fertilizer; remove any weak or damaged plants; ensure adequate light
Rapid Growth
2-3 weeksMultiple green shoots emerge from base; white shank develops and thickens; plants are 6-10 inches tall with visible layering in white base
Increase watering frequency; apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2 weeks; harvest outer leaves if desired; ensure good air circulation
Harvest-Ready Maturity
Continues for 6-8 weeks with proper maintenancePlants reach 10-12 inches tall with pencil-thick white bases (0.25-0.5 inches diameter) and vibrant green tops; ready for harvest
Begin selective harvesting of outer leaves; maintain moisture for continued production; can continue harvesting outer leaves for 6-8 weeks with proper care
Regeneration/Re-growth
3-4 weeks per regrowth cycleAfter harvesting, base regrows new leaves from the crown; plant can provide multiple harvests from same planting
Water regularly after cutting; apply fertilizer to encourage regrowth; pinch off any flower buds to extend harvest period
Common Pests
-
Use row covers over young plants; apply beneficial nematodes to soil; remove and destroy infested plants; practice crop rotation
-
Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity and air circulation; use sticky traps; encourage natural predators
-
Ensure excellent drainage; use disease-free sets or seeds; practice crop rotation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected plants immediately
-
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if needed; choose resistant varieties; remove infected leaves
-
Use floating row covers; apply diatomaceous earth around base; maintain soil moisture to discourage eggs; remove plant debris
Uses
Fresh garnish and salads
CulinaryScallions are prized for their mild, fresh onion flavor and are commonly used raw in salads, salsas, Asian dishes, and as a garnish for soups, baked potatoes, and egg dishes. Both white bases and green tops are edible and add crisp texture and subtle onion notes. [source]
Cooking and stir-fries
CulinaryScallions are a staple in Asian cuisine, particularly in stir-fries, fried rice, noodle dishes, and Asian greens. The white bases become mild and sweet when cooked, while the green tops add color and flavor when added at the end of cooking. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalScallions have been used in traditional Chinese medicine and folk herbalism to support immune function and circulation. They contain sulfur compounds and allicin (though less than garlic) with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Kitchen freshness and storage
HouseholdFresh scallions can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks in a sealed bag or with roots in water. They keep longer than many herbs and provide continuous fresh onion flavor for everyday cooking needs. [source]
Pollinator support and pest deterrent
WildlifeIf allowed to flower, scallions produce delicate lavender-pink blooms that attract pollinators and beneficial insects. The sulfur compounds in the plant also have natural pest-deterrent properties in companion planting situations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when plants are 6-8 inches tall; can harvest outer leaves while plant continues growing, or pull entire plant when base reaches 0.25-0.5 inches diameter. For continuous harvest, selectively remove outer leaves from the side, leaving inner growth intact. Best flavor when harvested in morning after dew dries. Can be replanted for successive crops; one planting can produce multiple harvests over 6-8 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Scallions can be regrown from kitchen scraps—place the white base with roots in water or soil and they will regenerate new green tops within 2-3 weeks, providing nearly infinite harvests.
- 🌱 Unlike true onions, scallions are non-bulbing and can be harvested continuously throughout the season without killing the plant, making them one of the most productive vegetables per square foot of garden space.
- 🌱 Scallions are also called 'spring onions' or 'green onions' in many regions, though technically they are a distinct non-bulbing variety separate from bulbing onions harvested when immature.
Want personalized planting timelines?
Sign up to get frost dates, task lists, and more for your zone.
Get started free