Shallots Growing Guide
Shallots are a type of small, sweet onion, easy to grow from immature bulbs (sets) or seed. They produce a cluster of sweet, tangy bulbs that can be stored for many months. They require full sun and free-draining soil.
This guidance applies to the crop in general. Individual varieties and local conditions can differ.
Planting information
Sowing indoors: Sow seeds in late winter in modular trays or small pots, five or six seeds per module/pot, then thin to three or four seedlings. Seeds need 10–16°C (50–60°F) to germinate. Keep seedlings in a warm, bright place and transplant outside in spring. Sowing outdoors: Sow seeds from early to mid-spring once the soil is drier and warming up. Sow thinly in drills 1cm deep, spacing rows 20cm apart. Protect seedlings from slugs and snails. Thin out seedlings first to 5cm apart, then later to 10cm apart. Plant sets or young seed-raised plants in spring. Sets are usually planted from mid-March to mid-April, though some varieties can be planted from late October to mid-March. Plant sets 2cm deep, with the tip just showing at the surface. Space sets 15–20cm apart, in rows 30–45cm apart. Firm the soil and water well. Birds may peck newly planted sets, so check and replant, or cover. Young plants grown from seed indoors should be hardened off before planting outside in spring. Do not split multi-seeded pots/modules; plant them as clumps, spaced 15–20cm apart, in rows 30–45cm apart. Firm soil and water well.
Harvesting information
Shallots typically ripen in mid- to late summer when the foliage turns yellow and flops over. Use a hand fork to gently lever the clusters of bulbs out of the ground, taking care not to bruise them. Carefully separate clusters into individual bulbs. They can be used immediately or dried for storage.
Storage information
Shallots store well for at least six to eight months. Dry bulbs fully before storing by laying them in a single layer on wire racks or slatted trays for about two weeks outdoors in full sun, or in a greenhouse/well-ventilated shed if damp. When ready, foliage should be dry and papery. Only store perfect, undamaged bulbs. Trim off any remaining dried foliage, then place bulbs in net bags or trays in a single layer in a light, cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid storing in the dark to prevent sprouting.