Best Shallot Varieties to Grow in the UK – Complete Guide

Choosing the best shallot varieties to grow in the UK can make a huge difference to your harvest, especially when you consider how many different types of shallots are available.

If you’re planning to grow shallots on your allotment or in your vegetable garden, you might be surprised by the choice.

Some shallots produce beautiful golden bulbs.

Others have reddish-brown skins and a stronger flavour.

You can grow long banana shallots, round shallots and traditional multiplying varieties that form several new bulbs from one planted set.

And there are also varieties you can grow from seed.

But which are the best shallots for British gardens?

Should you choose ‘Longor’, ‘Matador’, ‘Red Sun’ or ‘Golden Gourmet’?

What about the long ‘Zebrune’ shallots you can grow from seed?

And are there particular varieties that perform better during autumn planting?

Here at Gardening with Ben, I really enjoy growing onions, garlic and shallots on the allotment.

One of the things I particularly like about shallots is that you don’t need an enormous amount of space to grow them.

You can plant them in ordinary vegetable beds, raised beds or large containers.

They’re also incredibly useful in the kitchen, especially if you enjoy cooking with home-grown ingredients.

However, I always think it’s worth choosing the right variety before planting.

Some shallots are particularly good for storage.

Others have interesting shapes and colours.

Some are more resistant to certain problems, while others are suited to specific planting seasons.

And although all shallots belong to the same broad family of vegetables, their growing habits aren’t always identical.

In this complete UK guide, I’ll share 10 shallot varieties worth considering, explain what makes each one different and help you decide which is right for your garden.

We’ll compare rounded and elongated shallots, red and golden varieties, growing from sets or seeds, autumn versus spring planting and which types are worth trying if you’re a beginner.

I’ll also cover planting, caring for your crops, harvesting and storage, so you can get the very best results from whichever varieties you choose.

Let’s take a look at some fantastic shallots to grow!

What Are the Different Types of Shallots?

Before choosing a variety, it’s useful to understand that there are several different types of shallots.

Shallots are closely related to onions and form part of the allium family, alongside garlic, leeks and chives.

Traditional multiplying shallots belong to Allium cepa Aggregatum Group.

However, some elongated, seed-grown shallots are classified within the wider onion group.

For gardeners, the most important differences are their shape, flavour and how they’re grown.

Traditional Round Shallots

These are the shallots many gardeners are familiar with.

They generally produce small to medium-sized rounded or slightly oval bulbs.

When planted from sets, traditional varieties often divide to form clusters of several bulbs.

Red Shallots

Red shallots have reddish-brown or copper-coloured outer skins.

Some also have pinkish flesh.

They look attractive when harvested and can store well, depending on the variety.

Golden Shallots

Golden shallots usually have golden-brown or pale brown outer skins.

They’re useful for everyday cooking and offer a traditional shallot appearance.

Banana Shallots

Banana shallots are elongated, often resembling narrow onions.

They’re particularly useful for slicing and chopping.

Some banana varieties are grown from sets, while others are best grown from seed.

French Grey Shallots

Grey shallots are traditionally prized for their distinctive flavour.

Some have a stronger, more aromatic taste than common golden shallots.

They can be interesting varieties for gardeners who enjoy experimenting.

1. Shallot ‘Longor’ – Excellent for Elongated Bulbs

One of the most interesting shallot varieties worth growing is ‘Longor’.

It’s a traditional French banana-type shallot with long, attractive bulbs.

The outer skins are generally purple-brown or coppery, with pinkish flesh inside.

‘Longor’ is particularly rewarding because it can multiply from planted sets.

Under suitable conditions, one set may produce several new bulbs.

The RHS lists ‘Longor’ as an Award of Garden Merit variety.

Why Choose ‘Longor’?

• Produces attractive elongated bulbs.
• Traditional multiplying growth habit.
• Good culinary flavour.
• Useful keeping qualities.
• An interesting alternative to rounded shallots.

Is ‘Longor’ Good for Beginners?

Yes.

If you enjoy growing vegetables from sets, ‘Longor’ is an excellent variety to investigate.

When Should You Plant ‘Longor’?

It is offered by some suppliers for autumn planting.

However, always check the specific planting recommendations for the sets you’re buying.

What Is ‘Longor’ Best Used For?

Its elongated shape makes it excellent for slicing, roasting and adding to sauces.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’ve only grown ordinary round shallots before, try a small row of ‘Longor’. Comparing the shape of the harvest with your usual shallots would make a brilliant gardening experiment.

2. Shallot ‘Zebrune’ – Best for Growing from Seed

‘Zebrune’ is another fantastic elongated shallot variety.

It’s sometimes described as a heritage banana shallot or torpedo shallot.

Its long bulbs have attractive brownish-pink skins and a wonderful flavour.

One of its main advantages is that it can be grown from seed.

Unlike traditional multiplying sets, each seed-raised ‘Zebrune’ plant generally produces one bulb.

‘Zebrune’ has also received an RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Why Choose ‘Zebrune’?

• Can be grown from seed.
• Attractive long bulbs.
• Excellent for slicing.
• Good culinary flavour.
• Known for useful resistance to bolting.

When Should You Sow ‘Zebrune’?

You can start suitable seeds indoors during late winter.

Outdoor sowing is generally possible during spring once soil conditions are suitable.

Is ‘Zebrune’ Better Than ‘Longor’?

Not necessarily.

Choose ‘Zebrune’ if you enjoy growing from seed.

Choose ‘Longor’ if you prefer planting traditional multiplying sets.

Can You Grow Both?

Absolutely.

Growing them side by side would give you an interesting comparison between two different ways of producing long shallots.

3. Shallot ‘Matador’ – Excellent for Productive Crops

‘Matador’ is a rounded shallot variety with attractive reddish-brown bulbs.

It’s recognised by the RHS as an Award of Garden Merit variety.

One of its particularly useful characteristics is its productivity.

It can produce good harvests of rounded bulbs under suitable growing conditions.

Why Choose ‘Matador’?

• Rounded reddish-brown bulbs.
• High-yielding potential.
• Good storage qualities.
• Suitable for gardeners wanting a traditional shallot shape.
• RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Is ‘Matador’ Suitable for Beginners?

Yes.

It’s a sensible variety to consider if you’re looking for a productive shallot crop.

What Are the Bulbs Like?

The bulbs are generally rounded rather than elongated.

Their reddish-brown skins make them attractive once harvested and cured.

Is ‘Matador’ Good for Storage?

Yes.

It’s recognised for keeping well when harvested and cured correctly.

When Should You Plant It?

Check the supplier’s recommended planting season for the stock you’re purchasing.

Don’t assume every variety is suitable for overwintering.

4. Shallot ‘Meloine’ – Worth Considering for Disease Resistance

‘Meloine’ is an interesting variety because of its resistance to downy mildew.

It produces rounded bulbs with a relatively mild flavour.

The RHS includes ‘Meloine’ among its Award of Garden Merit shallots.

Why Choose ‘Meloine’?

• Attractive rounded bulbs.
• Mild flavour.
• Resistance to downy mildew.
• RHS Award of Garden Merit.
• An interesting option for gardeners comparing disease-resistant varieties.

Does Resistance Mean It Can’t Get Diseased?

No.

Resistance doesn’t mean immunity.

Growing conditions, weather and local disease pressure still matter.

Is ‘Meloine’ Good for Wet Gardens?

Don’t confuse resistance to one disease with tolerance of waterlogged soil.

Even resistant shallots need free-draining growing conditions.

Should You Try It?

Yes, particularly if you’d like to trial an alternative to more familiar shallot varieties.

5. Shallot ‘Camelot’ – Attractive Teardrop-Shaped Bulbs

‘Camelot’ produces distinctive teardrop-shaped bulbs with reddish skins and pale flesh.

It’s another variety recommended in the RHS growing guide.

Why Choose ‘Camelot’?

• Attractive teardrop-shaped bulbs.
• Reddish outer skins.
• Pale flesh.
• Good storage potential.
• An interesting variety for gardeners who enjoy different bulb shapes.

Is It a Banana Shallot?

No.

Its teardrop shape is different from the longer torpedo shape of classic banana shallots.

Is It Good for Cooking?

Yes.

Like other shallots, it can be used in sauces, dressings, roasting and everyday recipes.

When Can You Plant It?

Follow the supplier’s seasonal instructions.

Is It Worth Growing?

Definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a shallot that’s a little different from ordinary rounded types.

6. Shallot ‘Golden Gourmet’ – A Classic Golden Variety

If you prefer traditional golden shallots, ‘Golden Gourmet’ is worth investigating.

It produces golden-brown bulbs and is known for relatively large, good-quality shallots.

The RHS describes it as a reliable cultivar.

Why Choose ‘Golden Gourmet’?

• Attractive golden-brown skins.
• Good-quality bulbs.
• Relatively large shallots.
• Traditional appearance.
• Suitable for general kitchen use.

Is ‘Golden Gourmet’ Easy to Grow?

It can be straightforward when supplied as healthy planting sets and grown in suitable conditions.

What Soil Does It Prefer?

Like most shallots, it needs fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

Is It Better Than Red Shallots?

Neither colour is automatically better.

Choose according to your preferred appearance, flavour and variety characteristics.

Is It Worth Trying?

Yes.

It’s a useful variety to grow alongside a red-skinned shallot so you can compare their performance.

7. Shallot ‘Red Sun’ – Excellent Red-Skinned Shallots

‘Red Sun’ is another well-established variety for UK gardeners.

It produces bulbs with distinctive reddish-brown skins and pale flesh.

It’s valued for its flavour and keeping qualities.

Why Choose ‘Red Sun’?

• Attractive reddish-brown skins.
• Good culinary flavour.
• Suitable storage potential.
• Classic shallot appearance.
• Useful for a varied allotment harvest.

Is ‘Red Sun’ the Same as a Red Onion?

No.

It’s a shallot variety rather than a standard red bulb onion.

Is It Good for Roasting?

Yes.

Red shallots can be delicious when roasted until tender and sweet.

When Should You Plant It?

Choose sets supplied for your intended planting season.

Could You Grow It in Raised Beds?

Yes.

A sunny raised bed with suitable drainage can work very well.

8. Shallot ‘Jermor’ – A Traditional French Banana Shallot

‘Jermor’ is a slightly elongated French shallot.

It has copper-coloured skins and flesh with pinkish tones.

It’s particularly useful for gardeners who enjoy banana-style shallots.

Why Choose ‘Jermor’?

• Attractive elongated shape.
• Good flavour.
• Copper-coloured outer skins.
• Pink-tinged flesh.
• Good storage qualities.

How Is It Different from ‘Longor’?

Both are elongated French-type shallots.

However, they are separate cultivars with their own characteristics.

Is ‘Jermor’ Good for Cooking?

Yes.

Its shape is useful for slicing and preparing sauces.

Is It Worth Growing?

Absolutely.

If you have enough space, compare ‘Jermor’ and ‘Longor’ in separate labelled rows.

9. Shallot ‘Griselle’ – A Distinctive French Grey Shallot

‘Griselle’ is particularly interesting if you’re looking for a shallot with a stronger, spicier flavour.

Its bulbs are long, with purple-brown outer skins and pale flesh flushed with pink.

According to the RHS, ‘Griselle’ can be planted in autumn for a June or July harvest and has good keeping qualities.

Why Choose ‘Griselle’?

• Distinctive long bulbs.
• Strong, spicy flavour.
• Attractive purple-brown skins.
• Autumn planting potential.
• Good storage characteristics.

Is ‘Griselle’ Suitable for Every Garden?

Not automatically.

It still requires good drainage.

If your soil becomes waterlogged during winter, autumn planting may be difficult.

Is It Good for Beginners?

It’s worth trying, but I’d recommend starting with a small number of sets if you’re unfamiliar with the variety.

Who Would Enjoy Growing It?

Gardeners who enjoy experimenting with different flavours and traditional French shallots.

10. Shallot ‘Yellow Moon’ – Another Golden Type to Try

‘Yellow Moon’ is a yellow-skinned Dutch-type shallot offered by UK suppliers.

It’s another option for gardeners who want to try a traditional shallot variety grown from sets.

Why Choose ‘Yellow Moon’?

• Yellow-skinned bulbs.
• Traditional shallot appearance.
• Available from UK planting-stock suppliers.
• Useful for comparing with red varieties.

Is It Suitable for Autumn Planting?

Planting recommendations vary between suppliers and stock offerings.

Some suppliers list it as a spring variety, so don’t assume it’s suitable for October.

Is It a Good Choice for Beginners?

It can be worth trialling if you can obtain healthy sets supplied for the appropriate season.

What Would I Compare It With?

Try ‘Golden Gourmet’ or a red variety such as ‘Red Sun’.

Growing two differently coloured varieties makes harvesting particularly interesting.

Which Shallot Variety Is Best for Beginners?

If you’ve never grown shallots before, I’d recommend starting with traditional sets rather than seeds.

Sets are relatively straightforward.

You plant the small bulbs at the appropriate time, allow them to establish and look after them as they grow.

Good Varieties to Consider

‘Golden Gourmet’ is worth considering if you want classic golden shallots.

‘Red Sun’ is useful if you prefer reddish-brown bulbs.

‘Longor’ is excellent if you want to try elongated multiplying shallots.

Should Beginners Grow More Than One Variety?

Yes, if space allows.

Two varieties give you an opportunity to compare bulb shape, harvest size, flavour and storage performance.

How Many Sets Should You Start With?

Even a small row containing ten or twenty sets can provide useful experience.

Traditional multiplying varieties may produce several bulbs per planted set.

Best Shallot Varieties for Autumn Planting

Autumn planting can be a brilliant way to keep your allotment productive through the colder months.

However, not every shallot variety should be planted in autumn.

‘Griselle’

‘Griselle’ is specifically described by the RHS as suitable for autumn planting.

It’s a useful option to investigate.

‘Longor’

Some UK suppliers offer ‘Longor’ sets for autumn planting.

Check the instructions for the particular stock you purchase.

What About Other Varieties?

Some may be sold as autumn planting sets by specialist suppliers.

Always verify the recommended planting season.

What Is the Biggest Risk?

Winter waterlogging.

Shallot sets can rot when planted into ground that remains saturated.

What Would I Do on Heavy Clay?

I’d consider raised beds or waiting for spring if the soil doesn’t drain properly.

Best Shallot Varieties for Spring Planting

Spring is the main planting season for many traditional shallot sets.

March and April are particularly useful months.

Golden Varieties

‘Golden Gourmet’ and ‘Yellow Moon’ are varieties worth comparing when suitable spring stock is available.

Red Varieties

‘Red Sun’ is a useful option.

Banana Varieties

Check availability of ‘Longor’ or ‘Jermor’ supplied for spring planting.

What About Growing from Seed?

‘Zebrune’ is a particularly interesting seed-grown option.

You can start it indoors in late winter or sow directly outdoors during spring.

Best Shallots to Grow from Seed

Not every shallot variety is best grown from sets.

Some can be grown successfully from seed.

Why Choose Seeds?

Seeds are often inexpensive.

They allow you to raise a larger number of plants.

They can provide access to varieties unavailable as sets.

Best Variety to Investigate

‘Zebrune’ is an excellent starting point.

Its elongated bulbs and good flavour make it particularly appealing.

When Should You Sow?

Start suitable varieties indoors in late winter.

Outdoor sowing is generally possible during mid-spring.

Do Seed-Grown Shallots Multiply?

Usually, one individual seed-grown plant forms one bulb.

However, you can sow several seeds together in one module and transplant them as a group.

This produces a cluster of separate plants rather than one original set dividing.

Best Shallots for Long Storage

If your main goal is keeping shallots for months after harvesting, variety choice matters.

‘Longor’

Known for good keeping qualities.

‘Matador’

Recognised for its storage potential.

‘Camelot’

Another variety with useful keeping qualities.

‘Red Sun’

Known for storing well.

‘Jermor’

Worth considering for its flavour and storage characteristics.

Does That Mean Other Varieties Won’t Store?

No.

Many shallots store well when harvested at the correct stage and properly cured.

However, some varieties have better keeping characteristics than others.

How Long Can Shallots Be Stored?

Healthy shallots commonly store for at least six to eight months under suitable conditions.

Results depend on the variety, curing and storage environment.

Best Shallots for Raised Beds and Small Gardens

Shallots are excellent for smaller growing spaces.

You can grow traditional multiplying varieties in well-organised rows or grids.

Which Variety Should You Choose?

Choose according to your growing season and intended harvest.

For example:

• ‘Golden Gourmet’ for classic golden bulbs.
• ‘Red Sun’ for reddish-brown shallots.
• ‘Longor’ for an elongated multiplying crop.
• ‘Zebrune’ if you enjoy growing from seed.

What About Containers?

Shallots can be grown in large pots.

Use a container approximately 30 cm wide and deep or larger, with suitable drainage holes.

Should You Grow Several Varieties in One Pot?

It’s usually easier to keep varieties separate.

That way, you can compare their growth and harvests.

How to Plant Your Chosen Shallot Varieties

Once you’ve decided what to grow, the planting method is straightforward.

For traditional sets, follow these steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Soil

Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil.

Step 2: Remove Weeds

Clear persistent weeds before planting.

Step 3: Mark Your Rows

Allow approximately 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 4: Space the Sets

Position traditional multiplying sets approximately 15–20 cm apart.

Step 5: Plant Pointed End Up

The flatter root-producing base goes downwards.

Step 6: Leave the Tip Showing

Plant shallowly so the pointed tip remains visible at the soil surface.

Step 7: Firm the Soil

Gently firm around each set.

Step 8: Water In

Water appropriately, without saturating already wet ground.

Step 9: Label Each Variety

Use plant labels showing the name and planting date.

Step 10: Monitor Growth

Check for bird disturbance, weeds and poor drainage.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’re growing more than one shallot variety, label them clearly. It’s amazing how easy it is to forget which row contains which variety by the time summer arrives.

How to Grow Shallots from Seed

For seed-grown varieties such as ‘Zebrune’, the process is different.

Step 1: Prepare Seed Trays

Fill modular trays with suitable peat-free seed compost.

Step 2: Sow the Seeds

Sow several seeds per module.

A useful method is five or six seeds, thinning to three or four healthy seedlings.

Step 3: Provide Suitable Conditions

Keep the compost appropriately moist and provide adequate light.

Step 4: Harden Off

Gradually acclimatise the seedlings to outdoor conditions.

Step 5: Transplant in Spring

Plant the entire multi-sown module as a group.

Step 6: Space Appropriately

Allow approximately 15–20 cm between groups.

Step 7: Remove Weeds

Keep the growing area clear.

Step 8: Check Moisture

Water during dry conditions.

Step 9: Monitor Bulb Development

Seed-grown shallots begin forming bulbs as the growing season progresses.

What Soil Is Best for Shallot Varieties?

Although varieties differ, most shallots need broadly similar growing conditions.

Full Sun

Choose a position receiving plenty of sunlight.

Good Drainage

Avoid soil that remains waterlogged.

Fertile Soil

Mature garden compost can help improve soil structure and fertility.

No Fresh Manure

Avoid adding fresh manure immediately before planting.

Good Spacing

Allow adequate space for each plant or cluster.

Regular Weeding

Shallots don’t compete particularly well with established weeds.

Should You Feed Different Shallot Varieties Differently?

Most shallots have similar basic nutrient requirements.

They benefit from fertile soil and balanced nutrition.

Do Shallots Need Fertiliser Immediately After Planting?

Not necessarily.

If your soil is already fertile, extra feeding may not be required.

Can You Use Onion and Garlic Feed?

A suitable allium fertiliser can be used if nutrients are needed.

What About Chicken Manure Pellets?

They can be used according to label instructions, but avoid overapplication.

Is Too Much Nitrogen a Problem?

Yes.

Excessive nitrogen can encourage soft leaf growth and may affect bulb quality.

What About Container-Grown Shallots?

Plants in pots may require more frequent watering and occasional feeding because nutrients can become depleted.

When Are Different Shallot Varieties Ready to Harvest?

Most shallots are harvested during summer.

July and August are particularly common months in the UK.

However, autumn-planted varieties may mature earlier.

Signs of Maturity

The leaves begin turning yellow.

The foliage naturally falls over.

The bulbs have reached a suitable size.

Should You Harvest Every Variety Together?

No.

Different varieties may mature at different times.

Check each row separately.

How Should You Harvest?

Use a garden fork to loosen the soil carefully.

Lift the bulbs without damaging them.

What Happens After Harvesting?

Separate traditional clusters into individual bulbs.

Dry the harvest thoroughly in a sheltered, well-ventilated location.

Store only healthy, properly cured bulbs.

Can You Save Shallot Varieties for Planting Next Year?

Yes, with suitable traditional multiplying varieties.

You can save healthy mature bulbs and replant them during the following recommended planting season.

Which Bulbs Should You Save?

Choose firm, well-developed bulbs from healthy plants.

Should You Save Damaged Bulbs?

Avoid saving damaged or visibly diseased planting material.

What About Seed-Grown ‘Zebrune’?

For predictable results, follow the seed supplier’s recommended propagation method.

Can You Save Shallots Indefinitely?

Some gardeners maintain traditional varieties over several seasons.

However, monitor plant health carefully because pests and diseases can accumulate in repeatedly saved planting material.

What About Onion White Rot?

Never knowingly replant material from affected plants.

Onion white rot is a serious soil-borne disease that can persist for many years.

Ten Common Mistakes When Choosing Shallot Varieties

1. Choosing Only by Colour

Appearance is useful, but planting time, flavour and storage matter too.

2. Assuming Every Variety Can Be Planted in October

Choose stock specifically recommended for autumn.

3. Confusing Seeds with Sets

Traditional sets multiply, while seed-grown varieties may produce individual bulbs.

4. Ignoring Soil Drainage

Even a reliable variety can fail in waterlogged soil.

5. Planting Too Closely

Traditional multiplying shallots need room to develop clusters.

6. Choosing Unhealthy Planting Stock

Soft or rotten sets may fail to establish.

7. Forgetting to Label Varieties

This makes comparing harvests difficult.

8. Assuming Disease Resistance Means Immunity

Resistant varieties still need good growing conditions.

9. Harvesting Every Variety on the Same Day

Different varieties can mature at different times.

10. Storing Shallots Before They’re Dry

Proper curing is essential for longer storage.

Month-by-Month Shallot Variety Growing Calendar

Month	Main jobs
January	Plan varieties and order suitable sets or seed.
February	Start seed-grown shallots indoors and prepare spring planting stock.
March	Plant suitable spring sets and maintain seedlings.
April	Finish spring planting and transplant hardened-off seedlings.
May	Remove weeds, monitor foliage and check moisture.
June	Maintain healthy plants as bulbs develop.
July	Begin harvesting mature varieties.
August	Harvest later crops, dry and store bulbs.
September	Choose autumn varieties and prepare growing beds.
October	Plant suitable autumn shallot sets.
November	Monitor overwintering crops and soil drainage.
December	Check for waterlogging and inspect stored bulbs.

Actual dates depend on variety and weather.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shallot Varieties

What are the best shallot varieties to grow in the UK?

‘Longor’, ‘Matador’, ‘Meloine’ and ‘Zebrune’ are particularly worth considering because they hold RHS Awards of Garden Merit. Other interesting types include ‘Golden Gourmet’, ‘Red Sun’ and ‘Jermor’.

Which shallot variety is best for beginners?

‘Golden Gourmet’, ‘Red Sun’ and ‘Longor’ are useful choices to investigate when supplied as suitable planting sets.

What is the best banana shallot variety?

‘Longor’ is a good choice for multiplying sets, while ‘Zebrune’ is excellent for growing from seed.

Which shallots grow from seed?

‘Zebrune’ is a popular seed-grown variety.

Which shallots multiply?

Traditional set-grown shallots, including ‘Longor’, can develop several bulbs from one planted set.

Which shallots are best for autumn planting?

‘Griselle’ is described by the RHS as suitable for autumn planting. Some suppliers also offer ‘Longor’ for autumn planting.

Can you plant ‘Golden Gourmet’ in October?

Only if the specific stock you’re purchasing is recommended for autumn planting.

Can you plant shallots in March?

Yes. March is one of the main planting months for spring shallot sets.

Which shallots have red skins?

‘Red Sun’, ‘Matador’ and ‘Camelot’ are examples worth considering.

Which shallots have golden skins?

‘Golden Gourmet’ and ‘Yellow Moon’ are useful golden or yellow-skinned choices.

What is the best French shallot variety?

‘Longor’, ‘Jermor’ and ‘Griselle’ are interesting French-style varieties.

Which shallot has a spicy flavour?

‘Griselle’ is known for its relatively strong, spicy flavour.

Which shallot is mild?

‘Meloine’ is noted for its mild flavour.

Which shallots store well?

‘Longor’, ‘Matador’, ‘Camelot’, ‘Red Sun’ and ‘Jermor’ have useful storage characteristics.

Which shallot has resistance to downy mildew?

‘Meloine’ has resistance to downy mildew.

Which shallot resists bolting?

‘Zebrune’ is known for useful bolting resistance.

Are banana shallots the same as onions?

They’re closely related. Some varieties are traditional multiplying shallots, while certain seed-grown elongated types belong to the broader onion group.

Can you grow shallots in raised beds?

Yes. Raised beds can provide excellent growing conditions.

Can you grow shallots in pots?

Yes. Use sufficiently large containers with reliable drainage.

How far apart should shallot sets be planted?

Traditional sets are generally spaced 15–20 cm apart, with 25–30 cm between rows.

How deep do you plant shallot sets?

Plant them shallowly, leaving the pointed tips just visible above the soil surface.

When are shallots ready to harvest?

Many varieties are ready during July or August, although autumn-planted types may mature earlier.

How long do shallots store?

Well-cured shallots can commonly store for at least six to eight months under suitable conditions.

Can you save your own shallot sets?

Yes, provided the bulbs are healthy, mature and suitable for vegetative propagation.

Is one variety enough?

Yes, but growing two or three varieties gives you an opportunity to compare flavour, yield and storage.

Final Thoughts: Which Shallots Would I Grow?

If you’re trying to choose the best shallot varieties for your allotment, the first thing I’d recommend is thinking about what you want from your harvest.

Are you looking for traditional shallots that multiply into clusters?

Would you prefer long banana shallots that are easy to chop?

Do you want red, golden or copper-coloured bulbs?

Or is long storage your main priority?

The good news is that there are plenty of varieties worth trying.

For a traditional golden shallot, I’d consider ‘Golden Gourmet’.

If you like reddish-brown bulbs, ‘Red Sun’ and ‘Matador’ are interesting choices.

If you want long French-style shallots, ‘Longor’ is definitely worth investigating.

And if you enjoy starting vegetables from seed, ‘Zebrune’ is a fantastic option.

However, don’t forget that choosing a good variety is only the beginning.

Healthy planting material, suitable planting dates, plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil are all important.

You also need to give the plants enough room and monitor watering during the growing season.

When the foliage begins naturally yellowing and falling over, check whether the bulbs are ready to harvest.

Then dry them thoroughly and store them somewhere cool and well ventilated.

If you’ve got enough growing space, I’d recommend planting at least two different shallot varieties.

You can compare their bulb size, flavour, productivity and storage qualities.

And by the end of the season, you’ll have a much better understanding of which varieties grow best in your own garden.

That’s one of the best things about allotment gardening.

There’s always something new to discover, even with vegetables you’ve been growing for years.

So why not give a new shallot variety a try?

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!