By Benedict Vanheems | December 9, 2024
Shallots aren’t just another member of the onion family—they’re a culinary treasure! Packed with superior flavor, they store longer, and are surprisingly easy to grow. Whether you’re a gardening novice or seasoned pro, this guide will help you cultivate a thriving crop of shallots for a flavorful year-round supply.
Types of Shallots
Shallots come in two main types:
- Round Shallots: Classic, small, and packed with robust flavor.
- Banana Shallots: Elongated and easier to peel, these are a hybrid of shallots and onions. Both types are worth growing to add versatility to your garden and kitchen.
What makes shallots particularly exciting is their natural multiplication. Each bulb, also called a “set,” divides into 3–10 new bulbs. By saving some cloves from each harvest to plant next season, you create a self-sustaining cycle, reducing costs while maximizing yield.
For fall or early winter planting, choose cold-tolerant varieties. Spring-planting varieties may bolt (flower prematurely) in cool weather, reducing bulb quality.
Preparing the Soil
Like onions, shallots thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight (at least 5 hours daily, though more is better). Enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or manure before planting to boost fertility.
Good drainage is critical, especially in wetter months, as excessive moisture can cause rot. Regularly adding organic matter improves soil structure, ensuring it retains moisture in summer while draining well in winter.
Tip for Wet Soils: Use raised beds or defer planting until spring. Alternatively, start shallots in pots or plug trays for better control over conditions.
Planting Shallots
To plant, space bulbs 6 inches (15 cm) apart in all directions, leaving room for their natural multiplication. For larger bulbs, increase spacing to 10 inches (25 cm).
Plant each bulb so only its tip peeks above the soil surface. Shallots will establish roots over winter and begin sprouting as temperatures warm.
For saturated winter soils, start bulbs in large plug trays or pots filled with all-purpose potting mix. Press the bulbs into the mix, firm them down, and water. Once the soil is workable in spring, transplant them into the garden at regular spacings.
Growing from Seed
Seeds are an economical and reliable alternative to sets, especially in regions where shallots struggle with shorter daylight. Sow seeds from late winter to early spring in plug trays with fine potting mix.
Plant 5–6 seeds per cell, cover lightly with soil, and water thoroughly. Keep trays in a warm location (above 50°F/10°C) until germination, then move them to a greenhouse or cold frame. Transplant seedlings into the garden when they’re strong enough.
Caring for Shallots
Once planted, shallots are low-maintenance. Follow these tips for a thriving crop:
- Watering: Keep the soil moist during dry spells.
- Weeding: Hand-weed carefully to avoid disturbing shallow roots.
- Feeding: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, like pelleted chicken manure, in early spring to boost growth.
Adding a thin layer of mulch, such as grass clippings, helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and stabilize soil temperature. If any plants bolt, remove the flower stalks promptly and prioritize using those bulbs, as they won’t store well.
Harvesting and Storing Shallots
Shallots are ready to harvest in midsummer when their leaves yellow and collapse. Use a hand fork to gently lift the bulbs from the soil, ideally on a dry day. Let them air-dry on the soil surface before curing them in a cool, shaded, and airy spot for about two weeks.
Store cured shallots in net bags in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated location. Properly stored shallots can last for months, offering a gourmet ingredient at your fingertips.
Why Grow Shallots?
With their unparalleled flavor, shallots elevate dishes like no other. Minced into dressings, caramelized in sauces, or roasted whole, their culinary potential is endless.
How do you enjoy your shallots? Share your favorite recipes in the comments below!
By following these steps, you’ll master the art of growing shallots and reap the rewards of their superior taste and long shelf life. Happy gardening!