How hardy are they?

Egyptian Walking Onions are extremely hardy plants. In many climates they remain green well into winter and are among the first plants to return in early spring. As long as the soil drains well and does not stay waterlogged, they handle deep freezes and heavy snow with remarkable ease — one reason they are often called “winter onions.”

Our plants have endured harsh winters with temperatures plummeting down to -26° F! Our white variety of Egyptian Walking Onions have green leaves all winter long if the temperatures stay above 26° F.

Can they tolerate heat?

Our Egyptian Walking Onions thrive in our long, hot, dry, sunny summers. As long as they get enough water, they love those hot sunny days. In regions where the summers are intense with heat and humidity (above 90 degrees for long stretches), topset formation may be hindered. Our Egyptian Walking Onion topset formation here in eastern Washington has never been affected.

Towards the end of the summer (August here) the Egyptian Walking Onions become dormant. All topsets have been produced, and now the plant rests in the peak heat of the summer. Leaves have already died back, and stalks will follow suit. During this time it is not necessary to water them.

In hotter climates, they still like sun, but benefit from partial shade in the scorching afternoon rays. The soil here in the eastern Washington dry summer can bake bone-dry like a brick for weeks on end. Irrigation is a must, and mulch helps tremendously by preventing the bulbs from overheating and water loss through evaporation.

Planting times by climate

The simplest rule: plant when the weather is cool and the soil is moist. Don't plant in the scorching heat.

In colder zones, late summer through fall is ideal so roots can establish before deep winter. Early spring also works, but fall planting often gives a stronger start the following year.

In warmer zones, fall and winter planting are usually best. Avoid starting topsets right before the hottest part of summer. If your summer heat is intense, give them time to root deeply first, and consider a spot with afternoon protection.

I have confirmed several states where Egyptian Walking Onions thrive: Washington, Idaho, Texas, North Carolina, and Alaska. If you grow Egyptian Walking Onions in your state, give us a shout-out.

Weather wisdom: what they ask for

Drainage matters in every zone. Walking onions dislike heavy, wet soil—especially in winter. Choose a place that doesn’t stay soggy. Once they’re rooted in, they become more forgiving, and each year they grow steadier, hardier, and more self-sustaining.

They do best where they can have sun, drainage, and a little room to live as a perennial colony. In cooler climates, they’ll often take full sun gladly.