Shallots are a top choice of many gardeners because of how easy they are to grow. They are also a frequently misunderstood, thanks to poor labeling and regional differences in classification.
What is a Shallot?
People often confuse a shallot with other members of its family. A shallot is not a green or spring onion, though it looks similar to the American name for green onion: scallion. In bulb form they look much more like small, brown onions than anything else.
Shallots vs Onions
Shallots provide a lighter and sweeter flavor than onions. It’s entirely possible to substitute shallots for onions in a recipe, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Planting Shallots
It’s far easier to grow from a set than a seed. Look for sets about 2cm in diameter, though the size does not matter too much. Late Autumn is generally a good time to plant shallots, but this depends on the area of the world you are in. In cool climates, early spring is best. Check with local nurseries.
Prepare the soil a few months in advance. Use rotted organic matter. Avoid using manure when cultivating the soil, as high nitrogen results in poorer produce. Prior to planting, rake in a fertilizer.
Plant the sets about 6 inches (15cm) apart with 12 inches (30cm) between the rows. Instead of pushing the bulbs in to the soil, make a little indentation in the soil using a trowel or hands. The tips of the bulbs should protrude slightly above the soil. As they start to grow, push the soil up further around the base of the plant to blanch them.
Growing Shallots
Shallots enjoy moist, free draining soil. A dry, cool environment is ideal. They enjoy the same conditions as onions, generally, but aren’t as fussy about length of daylight.
Water is needed during dry times. They benefit from a water-soluble fertilizer. Hand weed around the shallots as much as possible to prevent weeds from taking over.
Harvesting Shallots
Shallots can be harvested at any time! When immature they can be used in a salad, or leaves can be picked off of them as they are being grown. If you are after the foliage, 4 inches (10cm) is a good height to harvest at. Maturity can be determined by looking at the top of the plant – a dry top indicates maturity.
Gently lift the bulbs out of the soil. Leave them on top of the soil for a few days to dry out. If weather is bad, bring them inside and place them on trays in a cool, dry spot for a week, rotating regularly.
Store in a dry, cool place. Net bags or old stockings are a convenient and nice looking way of storing them.
Pests and Diseases
The same things that afflict onions are problems for shallots. Onion thrips, downy mildew and white rot are the biggest threats. Click here to read about the potential problems.