Onions

I bought some onion seed a month back and have noticed that some of the white onions are starting to sprout in the back and some of the red onions are starting to wither dry pruning for want of a better word. I'm worried that if I don't plant out now I will loose the seeds but am worried that we still have morning frosts. Would it be safe to plant out the onions now or should I hold back?

Also picking three of these what would be safe to plant out now? and should I take any precautions?

1. Runner Bean Enorma
2. Swede Marian
3. Cabbage Savoy Perfection
4. Cauliflower ( All year round )?
5. Broccoli Green Sprouting Calabrese
6. Parsnip Gladiator
7. Beetroot Boltardy
8. Carrot Rainbow mix & Fly away F1
9. Pea Feltham First

I am also thinking about growing some Tomatoes in containers however I don't have a greenhouse to start them what type of Tomatoe is hardy enough to plant straight out?

Lastly I have bought a streawberry runner that I want to plant in a tub do I need to cover with some black platic to protect it from frost?

Cheers Bill

So many questions in one post, Bill. I'll pick a couple.

I'll tell you what NOT to plant out/sow first:

Runner beans - cannot go out until all threat of frost is past - I sow mine in a cold greenhouse in about a month's time.

Swede: another 2 months at least - I sow direct in the soil and then wait for the club root - but you'll probably be OK.

The rest you'd probably get away with if your back garden is well sheltered.

As for tomatoes, do you intend trying to start those yourself from seed, or buy plants in?

Tomato seed outside is a definite no no, for me anyway.

My tomatoes destined outside, will be sown indoors next month and gradually acclimatised to the wider world.

Sorry DD, just realised you said runners and not broad beans!! 

mumofstig, thanks for that.  Of the 2 varieties I've mentioned here, the spring onion and the Brunswick, which would you suggest sowing and an I too arly or late??