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Shallots

Allium cepa

INTRODUCTION

Closely related to the Onion, Shallots have a milder flavour and far longer storage capabilities and are well worth considering on your growing plans. This is an easy crop to grow and suits beginners.

They can be grown from seed but it is more usual to start crops from sets and have the advantage of being started very early in the season when plot workload is at its lowest. Each set will develop into multiple new bulbs which can be cooked, eaten raw or pickled. Seed raised Shallots will only generate a single new bulb.

Soil Preparation

Shallots are an easy crop to grow but good soil preparation is required for the best results.

The growing site should be in a sunny position with organic material added well in advance of sowing seed or planting sets.

The ground should be light, fertile, free-draining and stone free. Heavy clay soils are not ideal.

Shallots do not appreciate wet soils, especially if growing overwintered crops.

Shallots also dislike acidic soils. Correct soil pH if necessary.

Don't grow in soil that has had Alliums of any kind grown in it for the last two seasons. Always practice crop rotation.

Sowing & Planting

Shallot Sets are available for autumn planting during late September and October, and again in spring from February onwards.

Each growing period normally has its own set of varieties specific to the time of year, although some varieties can be used throughout both periods.

Autumn planted Shallots sets will be ready for harvest earlier than spring-planted but are more prone to diseases from overwintering, particularly if the soil is wet for prolonged periods.

Prepare the planting area by removing stones and weeds and rake to a fine tilth and gently firm soil.

Plant each set just below soil level with the tip showing and 20cm (8 inches) apart. Leave 30cm (12 inches) between individual rows.

As an alternative method, plant sets into modules or 10cm pots and keep in the greenhouse or cold frame for planting out when weather permits. We find this has better results as sets are not exposed to the worst of the winter weather.

Seed should be sown during early spring into seed trays or modules.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, prick out into 9cm pots. Plant out when fully rooted at slightly closer spacings than for sets.

Growing & General Cultivation

Keep growing area weed-free, Shallots hate any sort of competition from weeds but take care not to damage roots when hoeing. Damaged bulbs will not store well.

Once established, keep watering to a minimum as Shallots do not like to be overly wet.

Feed once or twice during the growing period.

Pests & Diseases

Shallots in general, are a relatively trouble-free crop but the occasional issue may arise:

Birds may pull sets out of the ground whilst searching for food. Simply replant. Covering crops with fleece cloches will eliminate the problem.

Bolting is the process where the Shallot bulbs prematurely flower and run to seed. It is caused by fluctuating growing conditions and temperatures. Try to keep growing conditions as constant as possible.

Onion Fly is not common in Shallot crops but if you get it, will result in plants turning yellow and collapsing. The larvae eat roots in early summer, particularly during very dry weather. Cover susceptible growing areas with fleece.

Harvesting

From mid-summer onwards, the foliage will start to turn yellow and die off.

When the foliage has fully died off, lift Shallots carefully with a fork and leave to dry in the sun.

When fully dry, remove any remaining soil and break up the clusters into individual bulbs.

Store in trays or nets in a frost-free shed or garage for use throughout the autumn and winter. Properly cured Shallots will even store until the following May or June giving you a virtually year-round supply.

As an alternative to dry storage, Shallots make a great item for pickling.