How to Grow Shallots from Seed in the UK – Complete Guide

Growing shallots from seed in the UK is a fantastic way to produce delicious home-grown bulbs without having to buy shallot sets every year.

Although many gardeners grow shallots by planting small bulbs known as sets, did you know that certain varieties can also be grown successfully from seed?

It’s a brilliant alternative, particularly if you enjoy starting your vegetables in seed trays and watching them grow from the very beginning.

And one of the best things about shallot seeds is how many plants you can potentially grow from a single packet.

You can sow them indoors during late winter, raise healthy seedlings in modular trays and transplant them into your vegetable beds during spring.

Or, if you prefer a simpler approach, you can sow suitable varieties directly into the soil once the weather begins warming.

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

One of my favourite parts of gardening is planning what to sow as winter comes to an end and preparing the vegetable beds for another growing season.

And shallots grown from seed are a fascinating crop to try.

They give you another way of growing these fantastic vegetables, whether you’ve got a large allotment, a raised bed or a few suitable containers.

However, growing shallots from seed is slightly different from planting traditional shallot sets.

When you plant a traditional multiplying set, it can develop into a cluster containing several bulbs.

But when you grow shallots from botanical seed, each individual seedling normally develops one bulb.

You can still harvest groups of shallots by growing several seedlings together, but they’re separate plants rather than one bulb multiplying.

Understanding this difference helps you choose the right sowing and spacing method.

In this complete UK growing guide, I’ll explain exactly how to grow shallots from seed, including the best sowing times, which varieties to choose, how many seeds to sow per module and how to care for young plants.

We’ll also cover direct sowing, transplanting, feeding, watering, bulb development, harvesting and the most common problems.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced allotment gardener looking to try something different, let’s get those shallot seeds growing!

Can You Grow Shallots from Seed?

Yes.

Although shallots are commonly grown from sets, certain varieties are specifically sold as seeds.

The Royal Horticultural Society confirms that shallots can be grown successfully from seed, although the process takes a little more time and attention than planting sets.

What Is a Shallot Seed?

A true shallot seed is a small, dark botanical seed produced by a flowering allium plant.

It looks similar to an onion seed.

This is different from a shallot set, which is a small bulb.

Do Shallot Seeds Produce Bulbs?

Yes.

Each healthy seedling can eventually develop into a mature shallot bulb.

Do Seed-Grown Shallots Multiply?

Usually not in the same way as traditional multiplying sets.

One shallot seed normally produces one seedling, which develops one bulb.

However, growing several seedlings together can produce a group of individual shallots.

Are Seed-Grown Shallots Worth Trying?

Definitely.

They’re particularly useful if you want to grow a larger number of plants without buying individual sets.

Why Grow Shallots from Seed Instead of Sets?

Both methods have advantages.

However, growing from seed offers several interesting benefits.

1. Shallot Seeds Are Often Cheaper

A packet of shallot seeds can contain enough seeds for a substantial crop.

2. You Can Grow Interesting Varieties

Some varieties, including ‘Zebrune’, are particularly suitable for seed growing.

3. Seed-Grown Shallots Are Less Likely to Bolt

The RHS notes that seed-raised shallots are generally less prone to premature flowering than shallots grown from sets.

4. You Can Start Early Indoors

Seeds can be sown during late winter, giving the plants time to establish before summer bulb development.

5. You Can Use Modular Trays

Multi-sowing allows you to raise several seedlings in a small space.

6. You Don’t Need Many Supplies

A packet of seeds, some peat-free seed compost, modular trays and a bright growing position can get you started.

7. It’s a Rewarding Growing Experience

Watching a tiny seed develop into a proper shallot bulb is incredibly satisfying.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’re used to planting shallot sets, try growing one variety from seed as well. You’ll be able to compare the growing methods and see which you prefer.

Shallot Seeds vs Shallot Sets – What’s the Difference?

Before getting started, it’s worth understanding the differences.

Feature	Shallot seeds	Traditional shallot sets
Starting material	Botanical seeds	Small bulbs
Initial growing method	Sow indoors or outdoors	Plant directly
Time and effort	More seedling care	Generally simpler
Bulbs produced	Usually one per seedling	Often several per set
Cost per starting plant	Usually lower	Usually higher
Bolting risk	Generally lower	Can be higher
Indoor sowing	Yes	Usually unnecessary
Typical outdoor planting	Spring	Spring; some varieties autumn
Best for	Gardeners who enjoy seed sowing	Beginners wanting a simpler start

Which Method Produces More Shallots?

It depends on how many plants you grow and the variety.

Traditional sets can multiply into several bulbs.

Seeds are usually cheaper per plant, allowing you to grow more individual seedlings.

Is One Method Better?

Neither is always better.

If you enjoy propagating vegetables, seeds are worth trying.

If you want the simplest planting method, sets may be preferable.

What Are the Best Shallot Varieties to Grow from Seed?

Not every variety commonly sold as a shallot is available as seed.

Some traditional multiplying varieties are mainly sold as sets.

Shallot ‘Zebrune’

One of the best-known seed-grown shallots for UK gardens is ‘Zebrune’.

It’s an attractive heritage variety producing long, torpedo-shaped bulbs.

The skins are typically brownish-pink, and the bulbs have an excellent culinary flavour.

The RHS lists ‘Zebrune’ as an Award of Garden Merit variety and notes its resistance to bolting.

Why Choose ‘Zebrune’?

It’s suitable for growing from seed.

It produces attractive elongated bulbs.

It’s useful for cooking and storing.

It’s a brilliant alternative to traditional rounded shallots.

Are There Other Seed-Grown Varieties?

Yes.

Different suppliers occasionally offer other seed-raised shallot cultivars.

However, availability changes, and it’s important to check that the packet is specifically intended for producing shallot bulbs.

Can You Sow ‘Longor’ from Seed?

‘Longor’ is commonly grown from traditional multiplying sets.

If you want predictable results from ‘Longor’, follow the supplier’s recommended propagation method.

Which Variety Would I Choose?

For someone growing shallots from seed for the first time, I’d start by investigating ‘Zebrune’.

When Should You Sow Shallot Seeds in the UK?

Shallot seeds are normally sown during late winter or spring.

The exact date depends on whether you’re sowing indoors or directly outside.

Sowing Shallots in January

Very early indoor sowing may be possible if you have sufficient light and suitable growing conditions.

However, young seedlings can become weak if started too early on a dark windowsill.

Sowing Shallots in February

February is an excellent month for starting shallot seeds indoors.

This gives plants a chance to develop before being transplanted during spring.

Sowing Shallots in March

March is another suitable month for indoor sowing.

You can begin preparing your outdoor growing area as the weather improves.

Sowing Shallots in April

April is a particularly useful month for direct outdoor sowing once the soil has begun warming and drying.

Can You Sow Shallots in May?

May is later than the preferred sowing window for many bulb-producing shallot varieties.

Late-sown plants may not develop enough foliage before bulb formation begins.

Can You Sow Shallot Seeds in October?

For most standard shallot varieties intended for spring sowing, October isn’t the recommended month.

If you’re planning autumn shallots, suitable overwintering sets are usually the more straightforward option.

Why Is Early Sowing Important?

Shallots need time to develop strong leaves before their bulbs begin swelling.

As daylight length increases, the plants begin changing from producing foliage to developing bulbs.

Why Do Leaves Matter?

Healthy green leaves produce the energy needed to support bulb growth.

What Happens If You Sow Too Late?

The plants may have less time to establish good foliage.

This can result in smaller bulbs.

Does That Mean Earlier Is Always Better?

No.

Seedlings started too early without sufficient light can become weak and stretched.

A healthy February or March sowing may be more successful than poorly managed seedlings started much earlier.

What About Northern UK Gardens?

In northern areas, spring soil warming can happen later than in sheltered southern gardens.

Starting seeds indoors can help you avoid waiting for outdoor soil temperatures.

What Equipment Do You Need to Sow Shallot Seeds?

You don’t need anything particularly complicated.

The basic equipment includes:

• Named shallot seeds.
• Clean modular seed trays.
• Peat-free seed compost.
• A watering can with a fine rose.
• Plant labels.
• A bright growing position.
• A suitable sheltered space for growing seedlings.
• A hand trowel for transplanting.

Do You Need a Heated Propagator?

Not necessarily.

A suitable bright and moderately warm germination environment is often sufficient.

Follow the temperature guidance supplied with your seed packet.

Can You Use Recycled Containers?

Yes.

Clean containers with suitable drainage holes can be used.

Are Modular Trays Better Than Large Seed Trays?

Modules are particularly convenient because you can transplant seedlings with less disturbance to their roots.

How to Sow Shallot Seeds Indoors – Step-by-Step

This is a practical method for growing shallots from seed during late winter.

Step 1: Choose Your Seeds

Select a named seed-grown variety such as ‘Zebrune’.

Check the packet for sowing instructions and the recommended dates.

Step 2: Prepare Your Modular Trays

Use clean trays with drainage holes.

Step 3: Fill with Seed Compost

Add peat-free seed compost.

Gently firm the surface without compacting it excessively.

Step 4: Moisten the Compost

Water lightly before sowing if the compost is very dry.

Allow excess water to drain.

Step 5: Sow Five or Six Seeds per Module

Place the seeds towards the centre of each cell.

This follows the RHS approach for multi-sowing shallots.

Step 6: Cover the Seeds

Cover at the depth recommended by the packet.

A shallow covering of approximately 1 cm is a reasonable guide for many shallot seeds.

Step 7: Label the Tray

Write the variety and sowing date clearly.

Step 8: Place Somewhere Suitable

Choose a warm, bright position for germination.

Step 9: Maintain Moisture

Keep the compost gently moist.

Avoid allowing it to become saturated.

Step 10: Watch for Germination

Shallot seedlings begin emerging when conditions are suitable.

Their first shoots resemble tiny green grass-like leaves.

Step 11: Provide Plenty of Light

Once seedlings emerge, light becomes particularly important.

Without enough light, they may become stretched and weak.

Step 12: Thin to Three or Four Seedlings

If most seeds germinate, reduce each module to three or four healthy plants.

Step 13: Continue Growing the Seedlings

Check watering regularly.

Don’t let the modules become completely dry.

Step 14: Harden Off During Spring

Gradually introduce the young plants to outdoor conditions before transplanting.

Step 15: Plant Outside

Once suitable spring conditions arrive, transplant the intact multi-sown modules into a prepared vegetable bed.

Gardening with Ben tip: I like the idea of multi-sowing shallots because you’re growing several plants in a relatively small space. Just remember that each seedling produces its own bulb, so don’t overcrowd if you’re hoping for larger shallots.

How Many Shallot Seeds Should You Sow per Module?

The RHS recommends sowing five or six seeds per module and then thinning to three or four seedlings.

This is a useful method for gardeners who want a group of shallots from each planting position.

Why Sow More Seeds Than You Need?

Not every seed is guaranteed to germinate.

Sowing a few extra allows you to select healthy seedlings.

Why Thin to Three or Four?

This helps reduce overcrowding.

Will Four Seedlings Produce Four Bulbs?

Potentially, yes.

Each healthy seedling can develop its own shallot bulb.

However, growth and final bulb development depend on conditions.

Will the Bulbs Be Smaller?

Multi-sown shallots may produce smaller individual bulbs than plants grown singly.

This can still be useful if you prefer smaller shallots for cooking.

What If You Want Large Shallots?

Try growing one seedling per module.

Give it adequate space once transplanted.

Should You Split Multi-Sown Seedlings Apart?

No.

The RHS recommends transplanting the entire group without separating the seedlings.

This avoids unnecessary root disturbance.

Single-Sown vs Multi-Sown Shallots

Both approaches can be useful.

Growing method	Advantages	Considerations
One seedling per module	More room for individual bulbs	More modules and growing space
Three seedlings per module	Good balance of space and number	Individual bulbs may be smaller
Four seedlings per module	More bulbs from each planting position	Increased competition
Direct sowing in rows	No indoor seedling stage	Requires outdoor thinning and weeding

Which Method Is Better for Beginners?

Multi-sowing three or four seedlings per module is worth trying.

It’s convenient and makes transplanting straightforward.

Can You Experiment?

Absolutely.

You could grow some modules with one seedling and others with three or four.

At harvest time, compare their bulb sizes and overall yields.

How to Stop Shallot Seedlings Becoming Leggy

Leggy seedlings have long, weak, stretched growth.

This usually happens when the plants don’t receive enough light.

Why Does It Happen?

Seedlings grow towards the available light.

If the light is too weak, their leaves may become excessively long and thin.

How Can You Prevent It?

Provide a bright growing position.

Avoid keeping newly emerged seedlings in unnecessarily warm, dark conditions.

Don’t overcrowd trays.

Are Windowsills Suitable?

They can be, particularly when they receive good natural light.

However, winter light levels can be low.

Should You Use Grow Lights?

They may help if your growing position lacks sufficient daylight.

They’re not essential for every gardener.

Can Leggy Seedlings Recover?

Mildly stretched seedlings may improve with better conditions.

However, severely weakened plants may never become as strong as healthy seedlings.

When to Transplant Shallot Seedlings Outside

Shallot seedlings raised indoors are normally transplanted during spring.

Are They Ready in March?

Possibly, depending on when they were sown and the weather.

However, avoid transplanting weak seedlings into cold, waterlogged soil.

What About April?

April is a useful month for planting established shallot seedlings outside.

Should You Wait Until May?

If the weather and soil are particularly poor, waiting for suitable conditions may be sensible.

However, avoid delaying unnecessarily because bulb development is influenced by increasing daylight.

What Is Hardening Off?

Hardening off means gradually acclimatising plants raised indoors to outdoor temperatures, sunlight and wind.

How Long Does Hardening Off Take?

Usually around a week or two, depending on conditions.

Can You Put Shallots Outside Immediately?

Sudden exposure to strong wind, sunshine or cold conditions can stress plants raised in sheltered environments.

Gradual acclimatisation is the better approach.

How to Transplant Multi-Sown Shallots – Step-by-Step

Once the seedlings are established, it’s time to plant them in their final growing position.

Step 1: Prepare the Bed

Choose a sunny location.

Step 2: Remove Weeds

Clear the soil before planting.

Step 3: Check Drainage

Shallots prefer free-draining soil.

Step 4: Add Mature Compost if Needed

Improve the soil structure appropriately.

Step 5: Mark the Rows

Allow approximately 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 6: Plan Planting Positions

Leave around 15–20 cm between multi-sown groups.

Step 7: Water the Modules

Moistening the compost beforehand can help the root balls slide out.

Step 8: Remove Each Module Carefully

Support the compost and roots.

Step 9: Keep the Seedlings Together

Don’t pull the three or four plants apart.

Step 10: Make a Planting Hole

Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball.

Step 11: Plant at the Same General Depth

Avoid burying the growing points deeply.

Step 12: Firm the Soil

Gently close the soil around the root ball.

Step 13: Water Well

Water after planting to help the roots establish.

Step 14: Label the Variety

Record the planting date.

Step 15: Keep the Bed Weed-Free

Young shallots don’t compete particularly well with weeds.

Step 16: Monitor Their Growth

As spring progresses, the foliage should become stronger and the plants will begin preparing for bulb development.

How to Sow Shallot Seeds Directly Outdoors

You don’t have to start shallot seeds indoors.

Suitable varieties can also be sown directly into prepared garden soil.

When Should You Sow Outdoors?

Mid-spring is the main period.

For many UK gardeners, April is a useful starting point.

Step 1: Choose a Sunny Bed

Shallots need plenty of direct sunlight.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Remove weeds and rake the soil to a fine, workable surface.

Step 3: Mark Your Drills

Make shallow seed drills approximately 1.5 cm deep.

Step 4: Space the Rows

Leave approximately 25 cm between rows.

Step 5: Sow Thinly

Distribute the seeds evenly along each drill.

Step 6: Cover with Soil

Gently cover the seeds.

Step 7: Water Carefully

Use a fine rose to avoid washing seeds out of position.

Step 8: Protect the Seedlings

Watch for slugs and snails, particularly in damp weather.

Step 9: Remove Weeds

Young shallot seedlings can be difficult to distinguish from some grass-like weeds.

Step 10: Thin to Approximately 5 cm

Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, remove excess plants.

Step 11: Thin Again to Approximately 10 cm

Give the remaining plants room to develop their bulbs.

Step 12: Continue Growing

Maintain suitable moisture and keep the bed weed-free.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’re direct sowing shallots, label the rows clearly. The young seedlings look similar to tiny grass-like shoots, and you don’t want to accidentally remove your crop while weeding.

Should You Sow Shallots Indoors or Outdoors?

There are advantages to both methods.

Indoor Sowing Advantages

You can start earlier.

Seedlings are easier to monitor.

Modules allow controlled spacing.

You can protect seedlings from some early outdoor problems.

Indoor Sowing Disadvantages

You’ll need space for trays.

Light levels can be a problem during late winter.

Seedlings require regular attention.

Outdoor Sowing Advantages

No seed trays or indoor growing space are required.

Plants establish in their final growing position.

There’s no transplanting stage.

Outdoor Sowing Disadvantages

You need suitable soil conditions.

Weeds can compete with young plants.

Slugs and snails may damage emerging seedlings.

Which Would I Choose?

For an early start and easier management, I’d grow shallots in modular trays.

However, it’s worth trying a short direct-sown row too.

What Is the Best Soil for Seed-Grown Shallots?

Seed-raised shallots need broadly the same growing conditions as shallots grown from sets.

Full Sun

Choose a sunny growing area.

Fertile Soil

Healthy soil supports vigorous leaf growth and bulb development.

Good Drainage

Avoid prolonged waterlogging.

Mature Organic Matter

Well-rotted garden compost can help improve soil structure.

Avoid Fresh Manure

Don’t add fresh manure immediately before planting.

What About Raised Beds?

Raised beds can provide excellent growing conditions, particularly where the normal soil is heavy or compacted.

Can You Grow Shallots from Seed in Pots?

Yes.

Container growing is useful if you don’t have an allotment or large garden.

What Size Pot Is Best?

Use a container at least around 30 cm wide and deep.

Choose a larger container if you want to grow several groups of seedlings.

What Compost Should You Use?

A peat-free soil-based potting compost is a good option for the final growing container.

Can You Transplant Multi-Sown Modules?

Yes.

Keep the seedlings together and maintain appropriate spacing between groups.

Will Potted Shallots Need More Water?

Usually.

Containers can dry out quickly during warm weather.

What About Feeding?

Plants in containers may benefit from occasional appropriate liquid feeding during spring and early summer.

Follow the fertiliser instructions.

How Often Should You Water Seed-Grown Shallots?

Water requirements change as the plants grow.

During Germination

Keep the seed compost evenly moist.

Avoid waterlogging.

During Early Seedling Growth

Check modules regularly because small cells can dry out quickly.

After Transplanting

Water in the seedlings to help them establish.

During Spring Growth

Once established outdoors, shallots generally don’t need frequent watering unless the weather is particularly dry.

During Early Summer

Water during prolonged drought while the crop is actively developing.

When Bulbs Begin Maturing

Reduce or stop watering once the bulbs have swollen and the foliage starts naturally dying back.

Can Too Much Water Cause Problems?

Yes.

Saturated compost or soil can damage roots and encourage disease.

Do Seed-Grown Shallots Need Feeding?

Shallots grow best in fertile soil.

However, fertiliser isn’t always necessary.

Feeding Young Seedlings

Seed compost usually contains relatively few nutrients.

If plants remain in modules for an extended period, they may need moving into a suitable growing medium or receiving appropriate light feeding.

Feeding After Transplanting

If the bed is already fertile and contains suitable mature compost, extra fertiliser may not be needed.

Can You Use Onion and Garlic Feed?

Yes, where additional nutrients are required.

What About Chicken Manure Pellets?

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

Is Too Much Nitrogen a Problem?

Excessive feeding can encourage unnecessary soft growth and create nutrient imbalances.

When Should Feeding Stop?

Avoid heavy feeding as the bulbs mature.

Why Are My Shallot Seeds Not Germinating?

This is one of the most common problems when growing shallots from seed.

Old Seed

Allium seeds can lose viability relatively quickly.

Fresh seed from a reputable supplier is generally a better choice.

Compost Too Dry

Seeds need suitable moisture to germinate.

Compost Too Wet

Waterlogging can cause seeds to decay.

Unsuitable Temperature

Very cold conditions may delay germination.

Follow the seed packet’s recommended temperature range.

Sowing Too Deeply

Small seeds may struggle if buried much deeper than recommended.

Poor Seed Quality

Some batches may have low germination rates.

What Should You Do?

Check the sowing date, compost moisture, temperature and seed age.

If very few seedlings appear under otherwise suitable conditions, try a fresh packet.

Why Are My Shallot Seedlings Falling Over?

Young seedlings can fall over for several reasons.

Insufficient Light

Weak, stretched plants may lean or collapse.

Overwatering

Persistently wet compost can damage roots.

Damping Off

Damping off is a disease problem that causes young seedlings to collapse, sometimes near the compost surface.

Poor Airflow

Crowded, humid conditions may encourage fungal problems.

What Can You Do?

Use clean trays.

Avoid overwatering.

Provide good light and appropriate ventilation.

Remove collapsed or diseased seedlings.

Don’t assume extra fertiliser will solve every problem.

Why Are My Seed-Grown Shallot Bulbs So Small?

Several factors can affect bulb size.

Late Sowing

Plants may not have developed enough healthy leaves before bulbing begins.

Overcrowding

Multi-sown groups may produce smaller individual shallots.

Poor Sunlight

Shade can limit growth.

Dry Soil

Prolonged drought can affect bulb development.

Nutrient Shortage

Poor soil fertility may limit plant vigour.

Disease

Severe pest and disease problems can reduce yield.

How Can You Grow Larger Bulbs?

Start seeds at a suitable time.

Provide good light.

Grow healthy transplants.

Allow more room around individual plants.

Keep weeds under control.

Maintain appropriate moisture while plants are actively growing.

Why Are My Shallots Producing Flowers?

Shallots sometimes produce a flower stem before harvest.

This is called bolting.

What Causes Bolting?

Stressful temperature conditions can trigger premature flowering.

Are Seed-Grown Shallots Less Likely to Bolt?

Generally, yes.

The RHS identifies lower bolting risk as one advantage of growing shallots from seed.

Should You Remove the Flowers?

If you’re growing for bulbs, remove flower stems promptly.

Can You Still Harvest the Bulbs?

Often, yes, if they’re healthy.

However, bulbs from bolted plants may not store as well.

Use those first.

When Are Seed-Grown Shallots Ready to Harvest?

Many seed-grown shallots are ready during mid- to late summer.

July and August are common harvest months, although variety, sowing date and weather can alter the timing.

What Are the Signs?

Look for yellowing leaves.

The foliage gradually falls over.

Bulb growth slows.

Should You Wait Until Every Leaf Dies?

Not necessarily.

Check the crop as it naturally approaches maturity.

Do Multi-Sown Shallots Mature Together?

Plants within a group may vary slightly in size.

Check that most bulbs have reached a suitable stage before lifting.

What About Single-Sown Plants?

These may produce larger individual bulbs when given enough space, although results depend on growing conditions.

How to Harvest Shallots Grown from Seed

Step 1: Check for Maturity

Look for natural yellowing and falling foliage.

Step 2: Choose Suitable Weather

Dry weather makes harvesting easier.

Step 3: Use a Hand Fork

Loosen the soil carefully.

Step 4: Lift the Plants

Avoid damaging the developing bulbs.

Step 5: Separate Individual Bulbs

Multi-sown modules may produce a group of separate bulbs.

Step 6: Brush Off Loose Soil

Avoid washing bulbs intended for long storage.

Step 7: Inspect the Harvest

Separate damaged or decaying shallots.

Step 8: Begin Drying

Place healthy bulbs somewhere dry and well ventilated.

Step 9: Keep Varieties Separate

Label different shallot varieties if necessary.

Step 10: Enjoy the Harvest

Use some fresh shallots in cooking and cure the remaining healthy bulbs for storage.

How to Dry and Store Seed-Grown Shallots

Like set-grown shallots, seed-grown bulbs need curing for reliable long-term storage.

Where Should You Dry Them?

A dry, well-ventilated shed or sheltered drying area works well.

How Should You Arrange Them?

Lay the bulbs in a single layer on suitable trays or racks.

How Long Should Drying Take?

Approximately two weeks in favourable conditions is a useful guide, although damp weather can extend the process.

When Are They Ready?

The foliage, necks and outer skins should become dry and papery.

Where Should You Store Them?

Choose a cool, dry, ventilated location.

Can You Use Mesh Bags?

Yes.

Mesh bags and shallow trays are useful for storage.

How Long Will They Store?

Healthy, properly cured shallots can often store for six to eight months, sometimes longer depending on the variety.

Check regularly for sprouting, softness or decay.

Can You Save Seeds from Home-Grown Shallots?

Potentially, yes, although it takes more planning than buying fresh seed.

Will Shallots Produce Flowers?

They can.

However, plants grown for bulbs are normally harvested before flowers mature into seeds.

Can You Let Some Plants Flower?

You may be able to grow selected plants on for seed production.

Will Saved Seed Grow True to Type?

Not always.

Cross-pollination with compatible nearby onions or shallots, and the genetics of some varieties, can produce variable offspring.

Are F1 Hybrid Varieties Different?

Seeds saved from F1 hybrids generally won’t reproduce uniform plants identical to the parent variety.

Is It Easier to Buy Fresh Seed?

For predictable results, yes.

Buying named fresh seed is generally the easiest option.

Ten Common Mistakes When Growing Shallots from Seed

1. Sowing Too Late

Plants may not establish enough foliage before bulb formation.

2. Using Old Seed

Germination can be disappointing.

3. Providing Too Little Light

Seedlings become weak and stretched.

4. Overwatering Modules

Wet compost can damage seedlings.

5. Sowing Too Deeply

Follow the recommended seed depth.

6. Overcrowding Seedlings

Too many plants can produce smaller bulbs.

7. Forgetting to Harden Off

Indoor-grown seedlings need gradual acclimatisation.

8. Transplanting into Waterlogged Soil

Poor drainage can damage roots.

9. Allowing Weeds to Take Over

Young shallots don’t compete well with weeds.

10. Harvesting Before Bulbs Are Mature

Immature bulbs may store poorly.

Month-by-Month UK Shallot Seed-Growing Calendar

Month	What to do
January	Choose seed varieties, check seed age and prepare equipment.
February	Sow shallots indoors in modular trays.
March	Continue indoor sowing and care for seedlings.
April	Harden off plants, transplant into suitable soil and direct sow outdoors.
May	Maintain healthy growth, remove weeds and monitor moisture.
June	Check bulb development and water during prolonged drought.
July	Harvest mature early crops where ready.
August	Harvest later bulbs, cure thoroughly and organise storage.
September	Review results and choose varieties for next year.
October	Plan next year’s seed-growing layout.
November	Check stored bulbs and seed supplies.
December	Prepare for the following late-winter sowing season.

These dates are approximate and will vary with the variety and weather.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Shallots from Seed

Can you grow shallots from seed in the UK?

Yes. Certain shallot varieties can be grown successfully from seed indoors or outdoors.

When should you sow shallot seeds?

Late winter indoors or mid-spring directly outdoors is generally recommended.

Can you sow shallots in February?

Yes. February is an excellent month for indoor sowing.

Can you sow shallot seeds in March?

Yes. March is suitable for indoor sowing.

Can you sow shallots outside in April?

Yes. April is a common outdoor sowing month when soil conditions allow.

Can you sow shallots in October?

Not usually for standard spring-sown seed varieties.

What is the best shallot variety to grow from seed?

‘Zebrune’ is an excellent variety to investigate and has an RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Do seed-grown shallots multiply?

Each seedling generally produces one bulb. Multiple seedlings grown together can form a group of separate bulbs.

How many shallot seeds should you sow per module?

The RHS recommends five or six, then thinning to three or four seedlings.

Should you separate multi-sown shallot seedlings?

No. Transplant the whole module as a group.

How deep do you sow shallot seeds?

Approximately 1–1.5 cm, depending on the growing method and seed packet instructions.

How far apart do you sow shallot seeds outdoors?

Sow in rows approximately 25 cm apart, then thin to around 10 cm between individual seedlings.

How far apart should multi-sown modules be planted?

Space groups approximately 15–20 cm apart, with 25–30 cm between rows.

Can you sow one shallot seed per module?

Yes. This is useful if you want to allow more space for individual bulbs.

Do you need a greenhouse to grow shallots from seed?

No. A suitable bright indoor growing position can be sufficient.

Do you need a heated propagator?

Not necessarily. Follow the seed supplier’s germination guidance.

How long do shallot seeds take to germinate?

The timing varies with seed freshness, temperature and growing conditions. Follow the packet guidance and avoid judging germination too early in cold conditions.

Why are my shallot seeds not germinating?

Old seed, unsuitable temperature, dry compost, waterlogging or excessive sowing depth may be responsible.

Why are my shallot seedlings leggy?

Insufficient light is a common cause.

When should shallot seedlings be planted outside?

During spring, after hardening off and once soil conditions are suitable.

Can you grow shallots from seed in raised beds?

Yes. Raised beds are excellent when the growing medium is fertile and well drained.

Can you grow shallots from seed in pots?

Yes. Use suitable large containers with drainage holes.

Are shallot seeds cheaper than sets?

Usually. A packet can provide many individual plants, although seeds require more early care.

Are seed-grown shallots less likely to bolt?

Generally, yes, according to RHS guidance.

Why are my seed-grown shallots small?

Late sowing, overcrowding, poor sunlight, drought and inadequate nutrition may contribute.

When do you harvest shallots grown from seed?

Usually during summer when the foliage naturally yellows and falls over.

Can you store seed-grown shallots?

Yes. Healthy, mature, properly cured bulbs can store for months.

Can you save your own shallot seeds?

Potentially, although producing true-to-type seed depends on the variety and pollination conditions.

Are ‘Zebrune’ shallots the same as ‘Longor’?

No. ‘Zebrune’ is commonly grown from seed, while ‘Longor’ is generally grown as a traditional multiplying shallot from sets.

Final Thoughts: Why Growing Shallots from Seed Is Worth Trying

Growing shallots from seed is a fantastic way to produce your own vegetables and try something different from traditional shallot sets.

Although sets are easy and convenient, there’s something particularly rewarding about sowing tiny seeds and watching them develop into mature bulbs.

And if you enjoy growing your own vegetables from scratch, shallots are definitely worth adding to your late-winter sowing plans.

The most important thing is starting at the right time.

February is an excellent month for indoor sowing, while suitable outdoor sowing is usually done during mid-spring.

Choose a named variety such as ‘Zebrune’, use quality peat-free seed compost and provide plenty of light.

If you’re growing in modular trays, try sowing five or six seeds per module before thinning to three or four healthy seedlings.

Then, when spring arrives, harden off your young plants and transplant the intact groups into well-prepared soil.

Keep the growing area sunny and weed-free.

Water appropriately during establishment and prolonged dry weather.

And give the plants enough time to develop strong foliage before the bulbs begin swelling.

When summer arrives and the leaves naturally begin yellowing and falling over, you’ll be ready to harvest those lovely shallots.

Dry them thoroughly and store healthy bulbs somewhere cool and well ventilated.

If you’ve previously grown shallots from sets, I’d definitely recommend trying seeds next season as well.

Grow a few traditional sets alongside some seed-raised ‘Zebrune’ and compare the results.

You’ll learn how the different growing methods work, which produces the bulbs you prefer and what performs best in your own garden.

And that’s one of the things I love most about allotment gardening.

There’s always a new crop, new method or new variety to experiment with.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!