How to Grow Shallots

Shallots are one of the most reliable and rewarding alliums to grow — easier than onions and great for storage. They form clusters of small bulbs from a single set, with a sweet, mild flavour perfect for cooking. They prefer full sun, fertile soil, and good drainage.

You can plant sets (small bulbs) in late winter or early spring, and harvest in midsummer. Autumn planting is also possible with hardy varieties.

🗓️ Month-by-Month Growing Guide (UK)

January

🧤 Prepare & Plan

• Choose your varieties:

  • ‘Golden Gourmet’ (spring planting)

  • ‘Jermor’ (red-skinned French type)

  • ‘Yellow Moon’ (autumn planting)

• Pick a sunny, open site with well-drained soil.

• Add well-rotted compost or manure — avoid fresh manure, which can cause rot.

• Check last year’s crop rotation — don’t plant shallots after other alliums.

February

🌱 Soil Preparation

• Rake soil to a fine tilth.

• If ground is cold or wet, cover with cloches or fleece to warm it before planting.

• Start planting early sets under cloches in milder regions.

• Space 15–20 cm between bulbs and 30 cm between rows.

• Push sets gently into soil so the tips are just visible.

March

🧅 Main Planting Month

• Plant maincrop sets now — soil should be workable and not waterlogged.

• Protect from birds (they love to pull out new sets) with netting.

• Water lightly after planting.

• Keep the bed weed-free with gentle hoeing.

April

🌿 Establishment

• Shoots appear — water if weather is dry.

• Check for frost damage and re-firm any lifted bulbs.

• Apply a light dressing of general fertiliser (e.g. Growmore).

• Weed carefully between rows.

May

☀️ Growing Strongly

• Water during dry spells to encourage bulb formation.

• Feed fortnightly with liquid seaweed or onion feed.

• Remove flower stalks if they appear (to keep bulbs firm).

• Watch for onion fly or rust — remove affected leaves early.

June

🌾 Bulb Development

• Shallots begin to swell and form clusters.

• Keep watering regularly — don’t let the soil dry out.

• Stop feeding by mid-June.

• Gently remove weeds to prevent competition.

July

🧅 Harvest Time

• Foliage starts to yellow and topple — this means it’s time to lift.

• Choose a dry day and lift bulbs gently with a fork.

• Leave to dry on the soil for a few days, or move under cover if rain threatens.

• Once tops are dry, twist or cut them off.

August

🌞 Curing & Storing

• Continue drying (curing) shallots in a greenhouse or shed for 2–3 weeks.

• Once fully dry, store in mesh bags, trays, or bunches in a cool, dry, airy place.

• Save the best, firmest bulbs for next year’s planting.

• Clear the bed and add compost ready for a late crop or green manure.

September

🌱 Autumn Planting (Optional)

• In mild areas, plant overwintering varieties like ‘Yellow Moon’ or ‘Pikant’.

• Prepare the soil as before — well-drained, sunny, and free of weeds.

• Cover with fleece or cloches in case of early frosts.

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October

🍂 Overwintering Crops

• Keep beds weed-free and check protection covers are secure.

• Water only if dry.

• Autumn-planted sets will begin rooting and will overwinter quietly.

November

❄️ Minimal Work

• Check overwintering shallots — firm any lifted by frost.

• Ensure good airflow to prevent mould or rot.

• Start planning spring soil improvements.

December

🌾 Rest & Prepare

• Enjoy stored shallots in cooking.

• Check stored bulbs regularly for softening or sprouting.

• Dig compost into beds for next year’s spring crop.

🌼 Key Growing Tips

• Sun: Full sun, sheltered from wind.

• Soil: Light, fertile, well-drained.

• Spacing: 15–20 cm apart, 30 cm between rows.

• Watering: Moderate — consistent moisture during bulb formation.

• Feeding: Light, balanced fertiliser or liquid seaweed feed.

• Harvest: 20–24 weeks after planting.

• Storage: Cool, airy, dry space; lasts up to 6 months.

🌤 Tip of the Season

“Keep your shallots weed-free and well-drained — they love the sun on their backs and hate wet feet.”