Growing Shallots Through Winter – Complete UK Guide

Growing shallots through winter is a fantastic way to make use of your allotment during the colder months and get a head start on next year’s vegetable harvest. But can shallots really survive frost, heavy rain and a typical British winter?

The answer is yes, provided you choose the right varieties and give them suitable growing conditions.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll love being able to plant vegetables during autumn rather than waiting until spring.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about visiting the allotment on a cold December morning and seeing green shoots growing while many of the other beds are resting.

And shallots are one of the vegetables worth considering for autumn planting.

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

They’re useful crops because they don’t need an enormous amount of growing space, and traditional shallot sets can produce several new bulbs from each one planted.

However, overwintering shallots is slightly different from planting them in spring.

For a start, not every shallot variety is suitable for autumn or winter planting.

You’ll also need to think carefully about drainage, particularly if your allotment has heavy clay soil or tends to become waterlogged after prolonged rainfall.

Cold temperatures can slow growth, and severe weather can occasionally disturb young sets.

But one of the biggest mistakes is assuming shallots need constant attention throughout winter.

In reality, healthy overwintering shallots often require very little maintenance.

You mainly need to ensure they’re planted correctly, aren’t sitting in saturated soil and remain protected from unnecessary disturbance.

As temperatures improve in spring, their growth becomes stronger.

Then, as the days grow longer, the plants begin developing their bulbs.

In this complete UK guide, I’ll explain when to plant overwintering shallots, which varieties to look for, how to protect them against frost and heavy rain, and whether they need feeding or watering.

We’ll also look at winter growing in raised beds and pots, problems such as yellow leaves and rotting sets, and how to encourage a healthy harvest during summer.

So if you’re thinking about planting shallots in October, November or even during a mild winter, let’s get started!

Can You Grow Shallots Through Winter in the UK?

Yes.

The Royal Horticultural Society confirms that some shallot varieties can be planted during autumn or winter rather than waiting until spring.

These varieties are less sensitive to cold conditions and are suitable for overwintering.

However, this doesn’t mean every shallot variety should be planted in October.

Some types are intended mainly for spring planting.

What Happens After Autumn Planting?

The planted set begins establishing roots.

Depending on the weather, it may also produce green shoots.

As winter arrives and temperatures fall, visible growth often slows.

The plant remains in the soil, ready to make stronger growth when conditions improve.

Do Shallots Grow All Winter?

Not at the same speed.

Root and leaf development may continue during mild spells, but growth can be extremely slow during the coldest weeks.

Will They Survive January Frost?

Suitable overwintering varieties usually tolerate ordinary UK winter conditions once established.

However, severe exposure, poorly drained soil or unsuitable stock can still cause failures.

Are Shallots Harvested During Winter?

Not usually when they’re grown as a traditional bulb crop.

The aim is to establish plants through winter and harvest mature bulbs during the following summer.

Is Winter Planting Worthwhile?

Yes, particularly where soil drainage is good and you enjoy making productive use of your allotment throughout the year.

Why Plant Shallots in Autumn Instead of Spring?

Autumn planting gives suitable varieties an opportunity to establish before the main spring growing season.

Earlier Establishment

Autumn-planted sets may develop roots before winter.

Productive Winter Growing Space

You can use beds that might otherwise remain empty.

Strong Spring Growth

Established plants can respond quickly as temperatures and daylight increase.

Potentially Earlier Harvests

Some suitable autumn-planted varieties mature earlier than spring-planted crops.

More Variety in Your Growing Calendar

Autumn planting spreads your allotment work across different seasons.

Are There Disadvantages?

Yes.

Winter-wet soil is a significant risk.

Overwintered plants may also encounter cold conditions that contribute to bolting in susceptible varieties.

Is Autumn Planting Always Better?

No.

If your soil remains saturated throughout winter, spring planting can be more reliable.

When to Plant Shallots for Overwintering in the UK

The planting date depends on the variety and local growing conditions.

For suitable autumn-planting sets, September to November is a common window.

Some varieties can also be planted during mild winter weather in free-draining soil.

Planting Shallots in September

Early autumn planting can help suitable varieties establish before the coldest weather.

However, don’t plant stock intended specifically for spring.

Planting Shallots in October

October is a useful month for autumn-planting shallots in many UK gardens.

The soil may still retain enough warmth for root establishment.

Planting Shallots in November

November planting can be successful where the soil remains workable and drains properly.

Avoid planting into saturated ground.

Planting Shallots in December

Some suitable sets can be planted during winter in mild areas with well-drained soil.

The RHS specifically includes shallots among vegetables that may be planted in December under those conditions.

Planting Shallots in January

Possible with appropriate varieties and suitable conditions, but don’t force planting into frozen or waterlogged ground.

Planting Shallots in February

Late winter planting may suit particular varieties.

Check the supplier’s instructions.

Which Month Would I Choose?

For a suitable autumn variety on a well-drained UK allotment, October is a sensible option.

But if your ground is consistently wet, I’d seriously consider waiting until spring.

Best Shallot Varieties for Winter Planting

Choose varieties specifically labelled suitable for autumn or winter planting.

This matters more than selecting a shallot simply because you like its colour or shape.

Why Does Variety Matter?

Shallots vary in their tolerance of cold and their tendency to bolt.

A variety intended for spring planting may perform poorly if subjected to winter conditions.

What About Yellow Moon?

‘Yellow Moon’ is sold by some suppliers for autumn planting. Check the individual seller’s recommendation for the particular stock.

What About Golden Gourmet?

‘Golden Gourmet’ is a familiar shallot variety, but planting recommendations can differ between suppliers and stock types. Check whether the sets you’re buying are intended for autumn or spring.

What About Longor?

‘Longor’ is a popular elongated multiplying shallot with good storage qualities.

Use the planting dates specified for the actual sets supplied.

What About Heat-Treated Sets?

Heat-treated sets can reduce the risk of bolting, but you must still follow their recommended planting season.

Can You Save Your Own Shallots for Autumn Planting?

Healthy bulbs from suitable multiplying varieties may sometimes be saved as sets.

However, avoid using any bulb from a diseased crop, and make sure the variety is appropriate for the intended season.

What’s My Recommendation?

Buy named sets from a reputable supplier and read the planting instructions before purchasing.

Don’t assume that every packet of shallots sold in autumn is suitable for every soil or growing situation.

Where Is the Best Place to Grow Winter Shallots?

The ideal location is sunny, reasonably sheltered and well drained.

Do Shallots Need Full Sun?

Yes.

Although the winter sun is weaker, the plants need plenty of light once growth becomes vigorous in spring.

Is Shelter Important?

An excessively exposed position may increase the impact of severe weather.

However, airflow remains important.

Should You Plant in Heavy Clay?

Only if the ground drains adequately.

Heavy clay that becomes saturated during winter is a poor choice.

Are Raised Beds Better?

Properly designed raised beds can be useful where drainage is difficult.

What About Growing Near Hedges?

Avoid positions where roots compete strongly with established shrubs or where spring shade will become excessive.

What If Your Allotment Has Wet Areas?

Use the best-draining position available.

If no suitable outdoor bed exists, consider spring planting or large containers with effective drainage.

How to Prepare Soil for Overwintering Shallots

Healthy soil is one of the most important factors in growing a successful crop.

Step 1: Remove Weeds

Clear persistent weeds before planting.

Step 2: Check the Drainage

Look for areas where rainwater collects.

Step 3: Improve the Soil

Add suitable mature garden compost or well-rotted organic matter where needed.

Step 4: Avoid Fresh Manure

Fresh manure isn’t suitable for direct contact with newly planted sets.

Step 5: Avoid Working Saturated Soil

Cultivating very wet soil can damage its structure.

Step 6: Level the Surface

Prepare a reasonably even planting area.

Step 7: Check the Previous Crop

Avoid repeatedly planting shallots after other alliums where possible.

Step 8: Consider Disease History

If onion white rot has been confirmed in a bed, don’t replant shallots there.

Step 9: Measure Your Spacing

Traditional sets need room to multiply.

Step 10: Prepare Labels

Record the variety and planting date.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’re growing on heavy soil, drainage would be my first concern. I’d rather delay planting than put healthy shallot sets straight into a bed that’s already saturated.

How to Plant Autumn Shallot Sets – Step by Step

Planting shallot sets is straightforward.

However, correct depth and spacing are important.

Step 1: Choose Healthy Sets

Select firm bulbs without soft spots, mould or serious damage.

Step 2: Check the Variety

Make sure it’s suitable for autumn planting.

Step 3: Choose a Suitable Day

Avoid planting into frozen or waterlogged ground.

Step 4: Prepare the Bed

Remove weeds and check the soil structure.

Step 5: Identify the Pointed End

The pointed end of the bulb faces upwards.

Step 6: Position the Root Base Downwards

The flatter end is where roots develop.

Step 7: Plant Shallowly

Set the shallot into the soil so the pointed tip remains just visible.

Step 8: Space Individual Sets

Allow approximately 15–20 cm between traditional shallot sets.

Step 9: Space the Rows

Leave around 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 10: Firm Gently

Ensure the root-producing base has good contact with the soil.

Step 11: Water In if Needed

Follow normal planting guidance, but avoid adding unnecessary water when the ground is already thoroughly moist.

Step 12: Label the Crop

Write the variety and planting date.

Step 13: Check for Bird Disturbance

Birds sometimes pull newly planted sets from the ground.

Step 14: Protect Temporarily if Necessary

A suitable cover can help until the sets are firmly rooted.

Step 15: Leave Them to Establish

Avoid repeatedly digging around them to check for growth.

How Deep Should Autumn Shallots Be Planted?

Traditional shallot sets are planted shallowly.

The RHS recommends leaving the pointed tips just visible at the soil surface.

Why Don’t You Bury Them Like Garlic?

Shallots and garlic have different planting recommendations.

Garlic cloves are normally planted more deeply.

What Happens If Shallots Are Too Deep?

Emergence may be delayed, particularly in dense wet soil.

What Happens If They’re Too Shallow?

Loose sets may be disturbed before their roots establish.

Should You Cover the Exposed Tips?

No.

The visible tip is normal.

What Happens When Bulbs Start Multiplying?

Some developing bulbs may become partially visible near the soil surface.

This is also normal.

Can Shallots Survive Frost?

Suitable overwintering varieties are capable of tolerating ordinary UK winter frost.

However, tolerance varies between cultivars and growing conditions.

Can They Survive a Light Frost?

Usually, yes, when the correct variety is properly established.

What About Repeated Frosts?

Healthy overwintering shallots can generally cope with normal seasonal cold.

What About Severe Prolonged Freezing?

Extremely harsh conditions can cause damage, particularly to exposed or poorly rooted sets.

Does Frost Kill the Leaves?

Some foliage may become damaged during severe weather.

This doesn’t necessarily mean the bulb has died.

How Do You Check After Frost?

Look for healthy central growth when temperatures improve.

Check that the bulb remains firm and rooted.

Should You Dig Them Up During Frost?

No.

Unnecessary disturbance can make matters worse.

Can Frost Cause Bolting Later?

Cold exposure during the growing cycle can encourage bolting in susceptible shallots.

This is one reason variety choice is important.

Should You Cover Shallots During Winter?

Most established, suitable overwintering shallots won’t require continuous covering in ordinary conditions.

However, protection may be useful in particular situations.

Can You Use Horticultural Fleece?

Yes.

Fleece can provide limited protection against temporary cold weather and may also help prevent bird disturbance.

Does Fleece Make Shallots Completely Frost-Proof?

No.

Its protection is limited.

Can You Use a Cloche?

A cloche may provide shelter from winter weather.

What About a Polytunnel?

A polytunnel can reduce exposure to rainfall and wind, but unheated tunnels can still experience freezing temperatures.

Should Covers Stay On All Winter?

Not automatically.

Monitor ventilation, moisture and plant condition.

Is Plastic Sheeting Safe Directly on the Plants?

Avoid trapping wet foliage against unsuitable coverings.

What’s the Best Approach?

Use protection when it’s genuinely needed, not simply because it’s December.

The Biggest Winter Problem: Waterlogging

For many UK gardeners, waterlogging is a greater concern than ordinary frost.

The RHS specifically warns against autumn and winter shallot planting in heavy, poorly drained soil because the bulbs are likely to rot.

Why Is Wet Soil Dangerous?

Roots need oxygen.

When soil remains saturated, the air spaces fill with water.

Roots may become damaged and stop functioning properly.

What Does a Waterlogged Shallot Look Like?

The leaves may yellow.

Growth can become weak.

Roots may deteriorate.

The bulb may become soft or rotten.

Does Heavy Rain Always Cause Rot?

No.

A healthy, free-draining bed may cope well with rainfall.

The main problem is prolonged saturation.

Should You Add Extra Water?

No.

Established outdoor crops generally don’t need routine winter watering.

How Can You Improve Drainage?

Improve soil structure with suitable mature organic matter over time.

Avoid compacting growing beds.

Consider raised beds where appropriate.

Would a Raised Bed Completely Prevent Rot?

No.

The bed must still drain properly.

Should You Move Shallots from Wet Ground?

Repeated transplanting can damage established roots.

If a crop is already failing, investigate carefully before deciding whether moving healthy plants is worthwhile.

Growing Shallots Through Winter in Raised Beds

Raised beds can be an excellent option for overwintering shallots.

They’re particularly useful where the natural soil drains poorly.

What Are the Advantages?

Improved growing access.

Potentially better drainage.

Less compaction if you work from paths.

Easier weed control.

What Soil Should You Use?

Suitable fertile, well-drained soil containing mature organic matter.

Can You Grow Shallots in New Raised Beds?

Yes.

But check the composition of the soil mix and drainage below the bed.

How Far Apart Should You Plant?

Approximately 15–20 cm between traditional sets.

Should You Fill the Bed with Pure Compost?

A balanced growing medium is generally more appropriate than relying solely on an unsuitable or immature compost.

Can You Mulch Around Shallots?

Yes, but avoid burying the tips and surrounding small shoots with thick, wet material.

What About Strulch?

A suitable straw-based mulch may help manage weeds and soil moisture, but it isn’t a substitute for good drainage.

Avoid creating persistently wet conditions around the bulb bases.

Growing Shallots Through Winter in Pots

Containers are useful when ordinary garden soil is too wet.

What Size Pot Should You Use?

The RHS recommends containers at least 30 cm wide and deep.

What Compost Is Best?

Use a suitable peat-free soil-based potting compost.

Do Pots Need Drainage Holes?

Yes.

Can You Put Pots on a Patio?

Yes, provided they drain well and aren’t left standing in water.

Should You Put Saucers Under Them?

Avoid allowing the containers to sit in standing water throughout winter.

Can Shallots in Pots Freeze?

The root zone in containers can experience more severe temperature fluctuations.

Move pots into a sheltered position during particularly harsh weather if necessary.

Should You Bring Them Indoors?

A warm living room isn’t generally suitable.

A sheltered, unheated greenhouse can be useful in severe conditions.

Do Container Shallots Need Water in Winter?

Check the compost occasionally.

Don’t water automatically if it’s already moist.

Do They Need Feeding?

Container plants may benefit from occasional suitable liquid fertiliser during active growth from spring to midsummer.

Can You Grow Winter Shallots in a Polytunnel?

Yes.

A polytunnel can be useful for shallots where outdoor soil becomes excessively wet.

Why Use a Polytunnel?

It provides shelter from direct rain and wind.

You can control watering more closely.

Will the Polytunnel Keep Shallots Frost-Free?

Not necessarily.

An unheated polytunnel can still become very cold.

Is Ventilation Important?

Yes.

Poor airflow and excessive humidity can encourage plant-health problems.

Should You Water Frequently?

No.

Check the moisture at root level.

What About Growing in Polytunnel Raised Beds?

That can work well when the soil drains properly.

Are Shallots the Best Use of Tunnel Space?

That depends on your other crops.

Shallots are generally capable of growing outdoors, so valuable protected space may be better reserved for plants needing more shelter.

What’s My Recommendation?

If outdoor drainage is poor, a small trial crop in a polytunnel raised bed can be worthwhile.

However, don’t overcrowd the tunnel or allow persistent humidity to develop.

Should You Water Shallots During Winter?

Usually, very little extra watering is needed for outdoor shallots once established.

Normal UK winter rainfall is often sufficient.

Should You Water Just After Planting?

Water in if needed, but avoid saturating already wet ground.

What About December?

Outdoor watering is rarely necessary unless conditions are unusually dry.

What About January?

Again, check soil conditions rather than following a fixed schedule.

Can Shallots Dry Out Under Cover?

Yes.

Pots and covered polytunnel beds may become dry because rainfall can’t reach them.

How Should You Check?

Feel the soil below the surface.

Can Overwatering Cause Rot?

Yes.

Prolonged waterlogging can damage the roots and bulbs.

When Is Watering More Important?

During spring establishment and prolonged dry periods in early summer.

Should You Feed Shallots During Winter?

In most cases, no.

Healthy shallots growing in fertile soil shouldn’t need regular winter feeding.

Should You Feed in October?

Not automatically.

Proper soil preparation is generally more important.

Should You Feed in November?

Routine feeding is usually unnecessary.

What About December?

Don’t apply fertiliser simply because growth has slowed.

Should You Feed in January?

Not as a routine practice.

When Might Extra Feeding Help?

The RHS recommends considering an organic-based, nitrogen-rich fertiliser in late winter if autumn-planted shallots are growing in poor soil.

What About February?

This is the main time to assess whether extra early-season nutrients are warranted.

Is Chicken Manure Suitable?

An appropriate product may supply nutrients where required, following its label.

Can You Use Onion and Garlic Feed?

Yes, when the product’s nutrient analysis and instructions are suitable.

Do You Need Both?

No.

Avoid applying several products unnecessarily.

Gardening with Ben tip: I wouldn’t feed overwintering shallots every month. I’d start with good soil, allow the plants to establish, then consider a suitable feed in late winter only if the bed needs it.

Why Aren’t My Autumn Shallots Growing?

This is one of the most common winter questions.

You plant shallots in October, visit the allotment in December and notice that the plants hardly seem to have changed.

Is Slow Winter Growth Normal?

Yes.

Cold temperatures and reduced daylight slow development.

Should You Dig Up a Shallot to Check?

Not unless there’s a genuine concern.

What If There Are No Shoots?

The set may still be developing roots.

However, poor planting stock or rot may also cause failure.

What If the Bulb Feels Soft?

It may be deteriorating.

What If the Leaves Are Green but Short?

That’s often normal during winter.

What Happens in Spring?

As temperatures and day length increase, healthy shallots generally begin producing stronger foliage.

When Should You Be Concerned?

If bulbs are rotting, roots have died or the foliage is deteriorating rapidly during otherwise suitable conditions.

Why Are My Winter Shallots Turning Yellow?

Yellow leaves can have several explanations.

Cold Damage

Severe weather may damage older foliage.

Waterlogging

Saturated soil can damage roots, causing yellowing.

Disease

Allium pests and diseases may also cause symptoms.

Nutrient Problems

Poor soil can affect plant health.

Normal Summer Ripening

Yellow leaves near summer harvesting time may be completely normal.

How Can You Tell the Difference?

Check the month.

Inspect soil moisture.

Look for unusual fungal growth or feeding damage.

If necessary, inspect one affected plant.

Should You Feed Yellow Shallots Immediately?

No.

Investigate the likely cause first.

Shallots Rotting During Winter – What Should You Do?

If shallot sets become soft or rotten, the cause needs investigating.

Step 1: Check the Ground

Is the soil saturated?

Step 2: Inspect a Bulb

Is it firm or soft?

Step 3: Examine the Roots

Are healthy roots present?

Step 4: Look for Unusual Growth

White fungal growth and decaying bulb bases can indicate serious disease.

Step 5: Don’t Spread Suspect Soil

Keep potentially infected soil away from clean growing areas.

Step 6: Remove Clearly Rotten Bulbs

They won’t recover.

Step 7: Monitor Neighbouring Plants

Check whether the problem is spreading.

Step 8: Review Drainage

If excessive wetness is responsible, consider a different growing method next season.

What About Onion White Rot?

Onion white rot is a particularly serious soil-borne disease of alliums.

Its black resting structures can survive in soil for at least 15 years.

Ordinary short crop rotation cannot eliminate it.

Should You Plant New Shallots in a Suspected White-Rot Bed?

No.

Seek reliable identification and avoid introducing further susceptible alliums if the disease is confirmed.

Can Birds Pull Up Autumn Shallot Sets?

Yes.

Birds sometimes peck newly planted sets from the soil before they’re firmly rooted.

What Does This Look Like?

You may find individual bulbs lying on the surface.

Does It Mean the Bulb Is Dead?

Not necessarily.

A healthy displaced set may still be viable.

What Should You Do?

Gently replant it correctly.

Can You Use Netting?

Yes.

A suitable temporary barrier may prevent further disturbance.

Should You Leave the Cover On Forever?

Not necessarily.

Once the sets are well rooted, you can assess whether it remains necessary.

What About Insect-Proof Mesh?

This can also provide protection against certain flying allium pests, although its purpose is different from ordinary bird protection.

Can Shallots Bolt After Winter?

Yes.

Bolting means producing a flower stalk prematurely.

Why Does It Happen?

The RHS identifies low spring temperatures as a trigger for shallot bolting.

Are Autumn-Planted Shallots at Risk?

Some varieties may bolt after experiencing particular cold conditions.

How Can You Reduce the Risk?

Choose varieties suitable for the planting season.

Consider professionally heat-treated sets when appropriate.

What Does a Bolting Shallot Look Like?

A thick flowering stem develops above the usual foliage.

What Should You Do?

Remove the flower stem promptly.

Can You Eat the Bulbs?

Healthy bulbs are generally edible.

Will They Store Well?

Usually less reliably than bulbs from unbolted plants.

Use bolted bulbs first.

What Happens to Overwintered Shallots in Spring?

Spring is when healthy overwintered shallots become much more active.

March

Leaves begin growing more strongly as conditions improve.

April

Plants develop increasing amounts of foliage.

May

The leaves continue strengthening.

Late Spring

Lengthening daylight encourages bulb formation.

Why Does This Matter?

The number and health of the leaves can influence the potential bulb harvest.

Should You Remove Healthy Leaves?

No.

The foliage helps the plant gather energy.

What About Weeds?

Keep them under control.

Should You Water During a Dry Spring?

Check the soil.

Water during prolonged dryness when needed.

When Do Overwintering Shallots Start Forming Bulbs?

Shallot bulb formation is influenced by increasing day length.

The RHS explains that plants need to be growing strongly by late spring because lengthening days stimulate bulbing.

Will Bulbs Form in January?

The main bulb-forming stage occurs later.

What About March?

Plants may still be concentrating on leaf development.

When Will You See Bulbs Swelling?

Often during late spring or early summer, depending on variety and conditions.

Do Traditional Shallots Multiply?

Yes.

A planted traditional set generally produces a cluster of new bulbs.

How Many Bulbs Will One Set Produce?

It depends on the variety and growing conditions.

Can You See Them Above the Soil?

Sometimes.

Mature clusters may become partly visible because shallots are planted shallowly.

Should You Cover Exposed Bulbs?

Not routinely.

When Do You Harvest Shallots Planted in Autumn?

Autumn-planted shallots are normally harvested during the following summer.

Some suitable early crops may be ready during June or July.

Others may mature later.

Are All Autumn Shallots Ready in June?

No.

What’s the Main Harvesting Sign?

The foliage begins turning yellow and naturally falling over.

Should You Force the Leaves Over?

No.

Let them mature naturally.

How Do You Lift the Bulbs?

Carefully loosen the soil with a fork.

Lift the clusters without bruising them.

Should You Separate the Bulbs?

Yes.

Traditional multiplying clusters can be carefully divided after lifting.

Can You Eat Them Straight Away?

Yes.

Can You Store Them?

Healthy, mature bulbs can be cured and stored for several months.

How to Dry and Store Overwintered Shallots

If you want to enjoy your shallot harvest through autumn and winter, drying is important.

Step 1: Harvest Mature Bulbs

Wait for natural leaf dieback.

Step 2: Avoid Damage

Lift the bulbs carefully.

Step 3: Remove Loose Soil

Brush or shake gently.

Step 4: Spread Them Out

Use slatted trays or wire racks.

Step 5: Provide Good Airflow

Keep the bulbs in a single layer.

Step 6: Protect from Rain

Use a ventilated greenhouse or shed during damp weather.

Step 7: Allow Time to Cure

Around two weeks is a useful guide in favourable conditions.

Step 8: Inspect the Skins

They should be dry and papery.

Step 9: Check the Necks

They should be thoroughly dry.

Step 10: Store Only Healthy Bulbs

Place them somewhere cool, dry, light and well ventilated.

How Long Can Shallots Last?

The RHS states that properly cured shallots generally store for at least six to eight months.

Growing Shallots Through Winter in Yorkshire and Northern England

Gardeners in northern England often experience cooler spring temperatures and periods of wet winter soil.

However, this doesn’t mean autumn shallots can’t grow successfully.

Are Northern Winters Too Cold?

Not necessarily.

Suitable overwintering varieties can grow in colder regions.

What’s the Main Concern?

Drainage and exposure are important considerations.

Should You Plant Earlier?

Follow the recommended dates for your variety, taking local weather into account.

What If Your Soil Is Clay?

Don’t plant into persistently saturated ground.

Are Raised Beds Worthwhile?

Yes, especially if the normal soil drains poorly.

Should You Use Fleece?

Temporary protection can be useful during severe weather or when birds disturb sets.

Is Spring Planting a Better Option?

It may be more reliable on particularly winter-wet allotments.

What’s My Recommendation?

Try a small, labelled autumn planting in your best-draining bed.

Compare the results with spring-planted shallots.

Over a couple of seasons, you’ll discover what works best for your own growing conditions.

Month-by-Month UK Winter Shallot Calendar

Month	What to do
January	Check drainage, frost damage and displaced sets
February	Assess plants; consider feeding in genuinely poor soil
March	Remove weeds and monitor increasing growth
April	Check foliage and soil moisture
May	Encourage healthy growth; look for flower stalks
June	Watch bulb development and early maturity
July	Harvest mature crops as foliage yellows
August	Finish harvesting later crops and cure bulbs
September	Choose suitable overwintering varieties
October	Plant autumn shallot sets in free-draining soil
November	Check establishment, weeds and bird damage
December	Monitor waterlogging and winter conditions

Ten Mistakes to Avoid When Overwintering Shallots

1. Planting Spring-Only Varieties in Autumn

Always check the supplier’s recommendations.

2. Planting in Waterlogged Soil

This can lead to bulb rot.

3. Planting Sets Too Deeply

Leave the pointed tips just visible.

4. Overwatering in Winter

Outdoor rainfall is usually sufficient.

5. Feeding Every Month

Routine winter feeding is generally unnecessary.

6. Ignoring Bird Disturbance

Displaced sets may fail to establish.

7. Using a Sealed Cover Without Ventilation

Persistent humidity can cause problems.

8. Assuming Slow Growth Means Failure

Healthy shallots can grow very slowly during winter.

9. Leaving Flower Stems to Develop

Remove them promptly when growing for bulbs.

10. Harvesting Too Early

Wait for natural ripening and well-developed bulbs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Shallots Through Winter

Can shallots survive winter in the UK?

Yes. Suitable autumn- and winter-planting varieties can survive ordinary UK winter conditions in appropriate soil.

Can you plant shallots in October?

Yes, when using varieties recommended for autumn planting.

Can you plant shallots in November?

Yes, provided the variety is suitable and the soil is workable and well drained.

Can you plant shallots in December?

Some suitable varieties can be planted during mild winter conditions on well-drained soil.

Can you plant shallots in January?

Some winter-suitable stock may be planted when conditions allow, but avoid frozen or saturated soil.

Are all shallots suitable for autumn planting?

No. Some are intended mainly for spring.

What are the best overwintering shallots?

Choose named sets explicitly recommended for autumn or winter by the supplier.

Can shallots survive frost?

Suitable established varieties generally tolerate ordinary winter frost.

Will frost kill shallot shoots?

Severe frost can damage foliage, but that doesn’t automatically mean the bulb has died.

Do shallots need fleece in winter?

Not always. Temporary protection may help during severe weather or bird disturbance.

Can shallots survive snow?

Suitable overwintering varieties can tolerate ordinary winter conditions, including snow, but severe exposure and wet soil can cause damage.

Should I water shallots in December?

Usually not outdoors unless the soil is unusually dry.

Should I feed shallots in winter?

Routine feeding is generally unnecessary. Poor soil may warrant suitable feeding in late winter.

Can chicken manure pellets be used in February?

An appropriate nitrogen-containing fertiliser may be helpful for autumn-planted shallots in poor soil when used correctly.

Why are my shallots not growing in January?

Cold weather and short days naturally slow development.

Why are my autumn shallots yellow?

Possible explanations include weather damage, waterlogging, root problems or disease.

Why are my winter shallots rotting?

Waterlogging, unhealthy sets and disease are among the possibilities.

Can you overwinter shallots in clay soil?

Only where drainage is adequate. Avoid heavy ground that becomes saturated.

Are raised beds good for overwintering shallots?

Yes, if they’re properly designed and drain well.

Can you grow winter shallots in pots?

Yes. Use appropriately sized containers and suitable peat-free soil-based compost.

Can you grow shallots in an unheated greenhouse?

Yes, with suitable ventilation and watering, although freezing conditions can still occur.

Can you grow shallots in a polytunnel through winter?

Yes, provided drainage, light and airflow are suitable.

Do overwintered shallots grow faster in spring?

Established plants may begin vigorous growth as temperatures and daylight increase.

When do autumn shallots start forming bulbs?

As days lengthen during late spring.

How many bulbs does one autumn shallot set produce?

Traditional varieties generally form clusters, but the number varies.

Can winter shallots bolt?

Yes. Low spring temperatures can trigger flowering in susceptible plants.

Should you remove shallot flower stems?

Yes, when growing for bulbs.

Can you eat bolted shallots?

Healthy bulbs are generally edible, but may not store well.

When are autumn-planted shallots harvested?

During the following summer, often June to August depending on cultivar and conditions.

How do you know when they’re ready?

The leaves naturally turn yellow and fall over.

Should you bend shallot leaves over?

No. Allow the foliage to fall naturally.

Can you store overwintered shallots?

Yes. Healthy mature bulbs can be cured and stored for several months.

Can you grow onions and shallots together over winter?

Yes, with suitable autumn varieties, but remember they share allium pests and diseases.

Is autumn planting better than spring planting?

It can be, but on persistently wet ground spring planting may be more reliable.

Can you mulch around winter shallots?

Yes, with care. Avoid burying the tips or trapping excess moisture around the bulbs.

Does Strulch protect shallots from frost?

It may provide some soil-surface insulation, but shouldn’t be relied upon as complete frost protection or a solution to poor drainage.

Can you save harvested shallots for replanting?

Healthy bulbs from suitable multiplying varieties may be saved as sets, provided they’re stored correctly and free from disease.

Final Thoughts: Growing Shallots Successfully Through Winter

Growing shallots through winter can be an excellent way to make your allotment productive during the colder months.

And the good news is that it doesn’t need to be complicated.

The most important thing is choosing the right varieties.

Not every shallot is suitable for autumn planting, so check the supplier’s information before buying.

Then concentrate on the growing conditions.

Shallots prefer sunny positions and well-drained soil.

If your allotment becomes extremely wet during winter, raised beds, suitable containers or spring planting may be more reliable options.

Remember that slow growth during December and January is normal.

Your shallots aren’t necessarily failing simply because the leaves haven’t grown much.

As temperatures improve and the days grow longer, healthy plants should become more vigorous.

And when spring arrives, check whether the soil needs any additional nutrients rather than feeding automatically throughout winter.

Keep weeds under control.

Monitor the plants for pest and disease problems.

And watch for flower stems, which should be removed if you’re growing for edible bulbs.

Then, as summer approaches, look for those lovely shallot clusters swelling near the surface.

When the foliage naturally turns yellow and falls over, it’s time to start checking for harvest maturity.

Carefully lift the bulbs, allow them to dry thoroughly and store the healthiest shallots for use throughout the colder months.

For me, that’s what makes growing shallots so rewarding.

You can plant a small bulb in autumn, look after it through the coldest part of the year and eventually harvest a cluster of home-grown shallots the following summer.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced allotment gardener, it’s a crop worth trying.

And if you’ve got challenging soil, don’t be discouraged.

Start with a small trial, improve your growing conditions and see which varieties work best for you.

That’s one of the things I love about gardening.

Every growing season gives us another opportunity to learn and produce something fantastic.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!