How to Grow Shallots in the UK – Complete Beginner’s Guide

Learning how to grow shallots in the UK is a fantastic way to produce delicious home-grown bulbs for your kitchen, and they’re one of the most rewarding vegetables you can plant on an allotment.

If you enjoy growing onions and garlic, then shallots are definitely worth adding to your vegetable garden.

They’re easy to grow, don’t require enormous amounts of space and can produce an impressive harvest from a relatively small number of planted bulbs.

And one of the most fascinating things about growing shallots is how they multiply.

When you plant a traditional shallot set, that single small bulb can develop into a cluster of several new bulbs by harvest time.

That means a handful of shallot sets can potentially provide a generous supply for cooking.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I love planting autumn vegetables on the allotment, particularly garlic, onions and shallots.

It’s brilliant knowing that while many summer crops are coming to an end, you can already be preparing the ground for the following year’s harvest.

Shallots are particularly useful because suitable varieties can be planted during autumn, while other varieties are best planted during spring.

They’re also excellent for gardeners with smaller growing spaces because they can be grown in raised beds and large containers.

However, like any vegetable, there are a few things you need to get right.

Plant your shallots in excessively wet soil, and the sets may rot.

Plant them too closely together, and you might end up with smaller bulbs.

And if you choose the wrong variety for autumn planting, you could experience problems with bolting or poor growth.

In this complete UK shallot-growing guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know, from choosing your first sets to harvesting and storing the finished crop.

We’ll look at the best planting months, how deep to plant shallots, how far apart they need to be, what fertiliser to use and how to care for them throughout the growing season.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced allotment gardener, let’s get those shallots growing!

What Are Shallots?

Shallots are edible members of the allium family, closely related to onions, garlic, leeks and chives.

Traditional shallots belong to Allium cepa Aggregatum Group.

They are grown for their underground bulbs, which are commonly smaller than ordinary onions and have a delicate, slightly sweet flavour.

Although shallots look similar to onions, many traditional varieties have a different growing habit.

A single planted shallot set can divide and produce several bulbs in a cluster.

What Do Shallots Look Like?

Shallots come in several shapes and colours.

Some are small and rounded.

Others are elongated and resemble miniature onions.

Their outer skins can be golden, copper-coloured or reddish-brown.

Inside, the flesh is generally pale, sometimes with pinkish or purple tones.

Are Shallots the Same as Onions?

Not exactly.

Shallots are closely related to onions, but they’re usually smaller and have a more delicate flavour.

Traditional shallot sets also commonly multiply to form clusters.

Ordinary bulb onions generally form one main bulb per plant.

What Do Shallots Taste Like?

Shallots have a mild, sweet onion flavour.

They’re excellent in sauces, stews, salad dressings, casseroles and roasted vegetable dishes.

Their flavour makes them particularly useful when you want the taste of onions without overpowering everything else.

Why Should You Grow Shallots?

There are several excellent reasons to grow shallots at home.

1. They’re Easy to Grow

Shallot sets are straightforward to plant, making them suitable for beginners.

2. One Set Can Produce Several Bulbs

Traditional shallot varieties can multiply into clusters, providing a useful harvest from relatively few sets.

3. They Don’t Need a Huge Garden

Shallots grow well in ordinary vegetable beds, raised beds and suitable containers.

4. They’re Excellent for Cooking

Their relatively mild flavour makes them useful in a wide range of dishes.

5. They Can Store for Months

Properly cured, healthy shallots can store well into autumn and winter.

6. Suitable Varieties Can Be Planted in Autumn

This is perfect for keeping your allotment productive during the cooler months.

7. You Can Grow Them from Seeds or Sets

Gardeners can choose the method that best suits their growing space and experience.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’ve never grown shallots before, I’d recommend starting with sets. They’re one of the easiest ways to get a crop established.

When Should You Plant Shallots in the UK?

One of the most important things to understand is that not every shallot variety has the same planting season.

Some are suitable for autumn or winter planting.

Others are intended for spring planting.

Always check the instructions supplied with your variety.

Planting Shallots in September

Some autumn-planting varieties can be planted during September.

However, avoid planting into waterlogged or excessively dry soil without appropriate preparation.

Planting Shallots in October

October is an excellent month for planting shallot varieties specifically sold for autumn planting.

The soil is often still workable, and the sets have time to begin establishing before winter.

Planting Shallots in November

Some suitable varieties can be planted during November, provided the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Can You Plant Shallots in December?

Certain varieties are suitable for winter planting.

Check the supplier’s recommendations and avoid planting into unsuitable soil conditions.

Planting Shallots in February

Late winter and early spring are useful planting periods for many spring shallot sets, where conditions allow.

Planting Shallots in March

March is a very popular month for planting spring shallot sets.

As the soil starts warming, the roots establish and new leaves emerge.

Can You Plant Shallots in April?

Yes.

Many spring varieties can be planted during April.

However, earlier planting often gives the plants more time to establish before bulb formation begins.

Autumn vs Spring Shallots – Which Are Better?

Both approaches can work well in Britain.

However, they have different advantages.

Advantages of Autumn Planting

Autumn-planted shallots begin establishing before spring.

They can make productive use of vegetable beds that would otherwise be empty.

They may also provide an earlier harvest.

Disadvantages of Autumn Planting

Prolonged winter wetness can cause problems.

Not every variety tolerates cold weather equally well.

Some plants may bolt after stressful temperature conditions.

Advantages of Spring Planting

Spring planting avoids the wettest winter months.

It’s particularly useful for gardeners with heavy clay soil.

Many varieties are available as spring sets.

Disadvantages of Spring Planting

You need to prepare your soil promptly as spring arrives.

The growing season may be shorter than for overwintered plants.

Which Would I Recommend?

If you’ve got well-drained soil or raised beds, autumn planting is definitely worth considering.

If your allotment is extremely wet during winter, spring planting may be the more reliable option.

Should You Grow Shallots from Sets or Seeds?

Shallots can be grown using two main methods.

Growing Shallots from Sets

Sets are small, immature bulbs supplied specifically for planting.

With traditional multiplying varieties, each set develops into a cluster of shallots.

This is the easiest approach for most beginners.

Advantages of Shallot Sets

• Simple to plant.
• Faster establishment.
• Relatively little equipment required.
• Suitable for many UK growing conditions.
• Traditional varieties multiply into clusters.

Growing Shallots from Seed

Seed-grown shallots offer another option.

They generally need more attention during the seedling stage.

Depending on the variety, each seed-raised plant usually produces a single mature bulb rather than the traditional cluster produced by a set.

Advantages of Seeds

Seeds are often cheaper per plant.

They offer access to different varieties.

Seed-raised plants can also be less prone to bolting.

Which Is Better for Beginners?

I’d recommend shallot sets if you’re growing the crop for the first time.

Once you’re comfortable with them, you can try growing shallots from seed.

What Are the Best Shallot Varieties to Grow?

There are many varieties worth considering for UK gardens.

Some are rounded, while others produce longer bulbs.

Shallot ‘Longor’

‘Longor’ is an elongated, banana-style shallot.

It has good storage qualities and is a popular choice for gardeners who enjoy long, easy-to-prepare bulbs.

Shallot ‘Matador’

‘Matador’ produces rounded, reddish-brown bulbs.

It’s a productive variety with good keeping qualities.

Shallot ‘Zebrune’

‘Zebrune’ is a heritage banana-type shallot with attractive elongated bulbs.

It’s often chosen by gardeners who enjoy growing shallots from seed.

Shallot ‘Meloine’

‘Meloine’ produces rounded bulbs with a relatively mild flavour and has some resistance to downy mildew.

Shallot ‘Camelot’

‘Camelot’ produces attractive teardrop-shaped bulbs with reddish skins and good storage potential.

Which Variety Should You Choose?

Think about whether you’re growing from sets or seeds, whether you want autumn or spring planting, and whether long storage is a priority.

Important: Never assume a variety is suitable for autumn planting simply because it’s a shallot. Always check the planting dates on the supplier’s packet.

Where Is the Best Place to Grow Shallots?

Shallots grow best in a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil.

Do Shallots Need Full Sun?

Yes.

Choose a location receiving plenty of direct sunlight.

This helps the plants produce healthy foliage and develop good bulbs.

Can Shallots Grow in Shade?

They may tolerate some light shade, but heavily shaded conditions can reduce growth and yield.

What Soil Do Shallots Prefer?

Ideally, the soil should be:

• Fertile.
• Well drained.
• Moisture-retentive.
• Relatively loose and well structured.
• Free from persistent weeds.
• Not heavily compacted.

Can Shallots Grow in Clay Soil?

Yes, provided the soil drains adequately.

However, autumn planting into heavy, saturated clay is risky.

Raised beds can be particularly helpful in these conditions.

Can Shallots Grow in Sandy Soil?

Yes.

But sandy soil may dry out quickly.

Improving it with mature garden compost can help retain moisture.

How to Prepare Soil for Shallots

Good soil preparation can make a considerable difference.

Step 1: Remove Previous Crops

Clear finished vegetables and unwanted plant material.

Step 2: Remove Weeds

Pay particular attention to established weeds such as bindweed and couch grass.

Step 3: Check Drainage

Avoid ground where water remains standing after heavy rain.

Step 4: Improve the Soil

Add suitable well-rotted garden compost if your soil needs improving.

Step 5: Avoid Fresh Manure

Fresh manure isn’t recommended immediately before planting shallot sets.

Use properly decomposed organic matter instead.

Step 6: Create a Fine Planting Surface

Use a rake to level the soil.

Remove large stones or compacted lumps where possible.

Step 7: Plan Your Spacing

Leave enough room for each set to multiply and develop.

How to Plant Shallot Sets – Step-by-Step Guide

Now let’s get planting!

This method is suitable for shallot sets being planted during their recommended season.

Step 1: Choose Healthy Sets

Buy shallot sets from a reputable UK supplier.

Look for firm bulbs without visible mould or decay.

Step 2: Prepare Your Growing Area

Choose a sunny position with good drainage.

Remove weeds and prepare the soil.

Step 3: Mark Your Rows

Allow approximately 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 4: Position the Sets

Space individual shallot sets about 15–20 cm apart.

Step 5: Identify the Top and Bottom

The pointed end should face upwards.

The flatter root-producing base goes downwards.

Step 6: Plant the Sets

Make a shallow planting hole or gently press each set into prepared soil.

Step 7: Leave the Tip Showing

Position the shallot so its pointed tip is just visible at the soil surface.

Don’t bury the entire set deeply unless the supplier specifically instructs you to.

Step 8: Firm the Soil

Gently firm the soil around each shallot.

Step 9: Water In

Water after planting, taking care not to leave the ground saturated.

Step 10: Label Your Crop

Add the variety name and planting date.

Step 11: Watch for Bird Damage

Birds sometimes pull newly planted sets from the soil.

Check the bed regularly and replant displaced sets.

Step 12: Protect if Necessary

Temporary horticultural fleece or securely fitted wildlife-safe protection can help until the sets have rooted.

Step 13: Monitor New Growth

Once established, green shoots should begin appearing as growing conditions allow.

Step 14: Keep the Bed Weed-Free

Remove weeds regularly to reduce competition.

Gardening with Ben tip: The most important things to remember are to plant shallot sets pointed end upwards, leave the tip showing and allow plenty of room between plants.

How Deep Should You Plant Shallots?

Shallot sets are planted relatively shallowly.

Unlike ordinary garlic cloves, which are normally buried beneath the soil surface, shallot sets should generally be planted with their pointed tips just showing.

What If You Plant Them Too Deeply?

Deep planting may delay emergence and create problems, particularly in heavy, wet soil.

What If You Plant Them Too Shallowly?

Sets may become loose or be pulled out by birds.

Should You Cover the Tips with Compost?

Avoid burying the tips under a thick layer of soil or mulch.

Follow the supplier’s planting advice.

How Far Apart Should Shallots Be Planted?

For traditional shallot sets, a useful guide is:

• 15–20 cm between sets.
• 25–30 cm between rows.

This allows the plants room to develop clusters of bulbs.

What Happens If You Plant Too Closely?

Overcrowded plants compete for light, water and nutrients.

Individual bulbs may remain smaller.

Can You Plant Shallots in a Grid?

Yes.

Raised-bed gardeners can use a grid layout, provided the plants have sufficient space.

Does Spacing Affect Yield?

Yes.

Closer planting may produce more bulbs per square metre but reduce individual bulb size.

For beginners, following standard spacing recommendations is the easiest approach.

How to Grow Shallots from Seed

Although sets are popular, growing shallots from seed is an excellent option if you want to try different varieties.

When Should You Sow Shallot Seeds?

You can sow indoors during late winter.

Outdoor sowing is generally suitable during mid-spring once the soil begins warming and drying.

Sowing Indoors

Fill clean modular trays with peat-free seed compost.

Sow approximately five or six seeds in each module.

Thin to three or four seedlings once established.

Keep the seedlings in a warm, bright position.

Growing Seedlings On

Maintain suitable moisture.

Avoid letting the compost become waterlogged.

Provide plenty of light to prevent weak, stretched plants.

Planting Seedlings Outside

Harden seedlings off gradually during spring.

Transplant the entire group from each multi-sown module without separating individual plants.

Allow approximately 15–20 cm between groups.

Sowing Shallot Seeds Outdoors

Prepare a fine seedbed.

Sow seeds thinly in drills approximately 1.5 cm deep.

Allow around 25 cm between rows.

Thin developing seedlings to the spacing recommended for your chosen variety.

Are Seed-Grown Shallots Different?

Many seed-grown varieties produce one bulb per individual seedling.

This differs from the traditional multiplying shallots grown from sets.

Growing Shallots in Raised Beds

Raised beds are an excellent option for shallots, particularly where normal soil is heavy or difficult to manage.

Why Use Raised Beds?

They can improve access, reduce compaction and help you create a suitable growing medium.

What Soil Should You Use?

Choose fertile, well-drained soil containing suitable mature organic matter.

How Deep Should the Bed Be?

A raised bed with approximately 20–30 cm of suitable growing medium over open garden soil can be effective.

The underlying soil should also drain properly.

Can You Grow Shallots in a No-Dig Bed?

Yes.

Shallots can grow well in a no-dig system with a mature compost mulch and good soil structure.

Do Raised Beds Need More Watering?

They may dry out more quickly during warm weather.

Check the soil rather than assuming the bed always retains enough moisture.

How to Grow Shallots in Pots

You don’t need an allotment to grow shallots.

They’re also suitable for growing in containers on a sunny patio.

What Size Pot Do You Need?

Choose a container at least approximately 30 cm wide and deep.

Larger containers allow you to grow more sets at suitable spacing.

What Compost Is Best?

Use a quality peat-free soil-based potting compost suitable for vegetables.

Does the Pot Need Drainage Holes?

Yes.

Good drainage is essential.

How Many Shallots Can You Grow in One Pot?

This depends on the diameter of the container.

Don’t overcrowd the sets.

Each traditional set needs space to develop its own cluster.

Where Should You Place the Container?

Choose a sunny position.

Will Potted Shallots Need Feeding?

Container-grown shallots may benefit from occasional appropriate liquid feeding during active growth.

Follow the fertiliser instructions and avoid overfeeding.

How Often Should You Water Shallots?

Shallots need moisture to establish and grow, but they don’t enjoy waterlogged soil.

Watering After Planting

Water in newly planted sets where appropriate.

Avoid saturating already wet autumn soil.

Watering During Winter

Natural rainfall is often sufficient.

Watering in Spring

Once established in garden soil, shallots generally need little extra watering unless conditions become unusually dry.

Watering During Early Summer

Prolonged dry spells may justify additional watering while the bulbs are developing.

Watering in Pots

Containers dry out more quickly and usually need more attention.

When Should You Stop Watering?

Reduce or stop watering once the bulbs have swollen and are approaching maturity.

Continuing to water heavily late in the season can reduce storage quality.

What Is the Best Fertiliser for Shallots?

Shallots grow best in fertile soil, but heavy feeding isn’t always necessary.

Is Homemade Compost Good?

Yes.

Mature garden compost can improve soil structure and supply nutrients.

Should You Feed Shallots in Autumn?

If the soil is already fertile, additional fertiliser may not be necessary immediately after planting.

Feeding in Late Winter

Autumn-planted shallots growing in poor soil may benefit from appropriate nitrogen-rich fertiliser during late winter.

Can You Use Chicken Manure Pellets?

Yes, at suitable label rates, but avoid excessive nitrogen.

Can You Use Onion and Garlic Feed?

A fertiliser formulated for onions and garlic may also be appropriate for shallots.

What About Tomato Feed?

Tomato feed isn’t automatically necessary.

Balanced nutrition and healthy soil are more important.

When Should You Stop Feeding?

Avoid unnecessary feeding as the crop approaches maturity.

Gardening with Ben tip: Rather than feeding constantly, concentrate on preparing healthy soil and only adding fertiliser when the crop actually needs it.

How to Care for Shallots During Winter

Suitable autumn-planted varieties can remain outdoors during winter.

However, good drainage is especially important.

Check for Waterlogging

Inspect the bed after prolonged rain.

Remove Weeds

Keep the soil reasonably clear.

Check for Loose Sets

Birds may disturb recently planted shallots.

Don’t Worry About Slow Growth

Cold weather naturally slows leaf development.

Should You Cover Shallots Against Frost?

Varieties sold for overwintering are selected to tolerate appropriate seasonal conditions.

However, newly planted sets may benefit from temporary protection against disturbance or severe conditions.

Why Are My Shallots Bolting?

Bolting is when a shallot produces a flower stem before the normal bulb harvest.

It can be triggered by temperature stress, particularly exposure to cold during the wrong stage of growth.

What Happens When Shallots Bolt?

The plant directs energy into flowering.

Bulb quality and storage life can be affected.

Can You Remove the Flower Stem?

Yes.

Remove flower stems as soon as they appear if you’re growing shallots for bulbs.

Will the Bulb Still Be Edible?

Often, yes, if healthy.

However, use bulbs from bolted plants relatively promptly because they may not store well.

How Can You Reduce Bolting?

Choose suitable varieties.

Follow recommended planting times.

Consider heat-treated sets where available.

Avoid growing unsuitable spring varieties through winter.

Common Shallot Pests and Diseases

Shallots belong to the allium family and share several pests and diseases with onions, garlic and leeks.

Allium Leaf Miner

This pest can attack shallots, onions, garlic and leeks.

Its larvae tunnel into plant tissues and can encourage secondary rotting.

Fine insect-proof mesh may help when fitted before the adults begin laying eggs.

Onion Fly

Onion fly larvae can damage the roots and bulbs of shallots.

Growing from healthy sets and using appropriate protection can reduce some risks.

Onion White Rot

This is a serious fungal disease affecting alliums.

Symptoms may include yellowing leaves, wilting, decaying roots and white fungal growth around the bulb base.

The pathogen can persist in contaminated soil for many years.

Rust

Rust can produce raised orange pustules on allium foliage.

Severe infections can weaken plants.

Downy Mildew

Damp conditions can encourage downy mildew problems.

How Can You Reduce Problems?

Use healthy planting material.

Choose a well-drained growing position.

Avoid overcrowding.

Keep the area weed-free.

Use appropriate crop rotation.

Avoid transferring contaminated soil or planting material between beds.

When Are Shallots Ready to Harvest in the UK?

Shallots are generally ready during mid- to late summer.

July and August are common harvesting months, although varieties and planting dates can change the timing.

What Are the Signs of Maturity?

The foliage begins turning yellow.

Leaves gradually fall or flop over.

The plant stops producing vigorous new growth.

Bulbs have developed beneath the soil.

Should You Wait Until Every Leaf Is Brown?

Not necessarily.

Check the crop as the foliage naturally declines.

What If Your Shallots Are Still Green?

They may still be growing.

Allow more time if the crop is healthy and conditions remain suitable.

How to Harvest Shallots

Harvesting is one of the most satisfying parts of growing shallots.

Step 1: Check for Yellowing Leaves

Look for signs of natural maturity.

Step 2: Choose Suitable Weather

Dry conditions make harvesting and drying easier.

Step 3: Use a Hand Fork

Carefully loosen the soil around the bulb cluster.

Step 4: Lift the Cluster

Avoid pulling hard on the foliage.

Step 5: Separate Individual Bulbs

Gently divide the harvested cluster into individual shallots.

Step 6: Remove Loose Soil

Brush away excess soil without damaging the protective skins.

Step 7: Inspect the Harvest

Separate damaged or rotten bulbs.

Step 8: Begin Drying

Move healthy bulbs into suitable drying conditions.

How to Dry and Store Shallots

If you want your shallots to keep for months, they need to be dried properly.

Where Should You Dry Them?

A dry, well-ventilated shed, sheltered outdoor area or suitable greenhouse can work well.

How Should They Be Arranged?

Place the bulbs in a single layer on trays or wire racks so air can circulate.

How Long Should They Dry?

Approximately two weeks is a useful starting point in suitable conditions, although drying may take longer in damp weather.

How Do You Know They’re Ready?

The foliage and outer skins should be dry and papery.

Where Should You Store Shallots?

Choose somewhere cool, dry, airy and protected from excess moisture.

What Containers Are Best?

Mesh bags, breathable baskets or shallow trays are suitable.

How Long Do Shallots Store?

Well-cured, healthy shallots often store for six to eight months, with some varieties lasting longer under suitable conditions.

Check stored bulbs regularly and remove any that begin deteriorating.

Can You Save Shallots for Planting Next Year?

Yes.

If you’ve grown traditional shallots from sets, you may be able to save some healthy mature bulbs for the following planting season.

Choose Healthy Bulbs

Avoid damaged or diseased shallots.

Cure Thoroughly

Dry the bulbs properly before storage.

Store in Suitable Conditions

Keep them cool, dry and well ventilated.

Replant at the Correct Time

Use the appropriate planting season for the variety.

Is It Worth Saving Your Own Sets?

It can be a useful way to maintain a variety you enjoy growing.

However, plant health is essential.

Avoid repeatedly saving bulbs from crops showing unexplained disease symptoms.

Ten Common Mistakes When Growing Shallots

1. Planting the Wrong Variety in Autumn

Choose shallots specifically recommended for overwintering.

2. Growing in Waterlogged Soil

Poor drainage can cause bulbs to rot.

3. Planting Sets Too Deeply

Leave their pointed tips just visible at the surface.

4. Planting Too Closely

Traditional shallots need room to multiply.

5. Choosing a Shady Location

Full sun supports healthy growth.

6. Allowing Weeds to Take Over

Weeds compete for moisture and nutrients.

7. Overfeeding

Excessive fertiliser doesn’t guarantee larger bulbs.

8. Ignoring Flower Stems

Bolted shallots may store poorly.

9. Harvesting Too Early or Too Late

Check the foliage and bulb maturity.

10. Storing Bulbs Before They’re Dry

Poor curing increases the risk of deterioration.

Month-by-Month Shallot Growing Calendar for the UK

Month	Jobs
January	Check overwintering shallots for drainage problems and frost disturbance.
February	Prepare for spring planting and start suitable seeds under cover.
March	Plant spring sets and care for seedlings.
April	Finish suitable spring planting and sow seeds outdoors.
May	Remove weeds, monitor leaf growth and check soil moisture.
June	Water during prolonged drought and monitor developing bulbs.
July	Check early crops for maturity and harvest when ready.
August	Harvest later shallots, dry bulbs and prepare storage.
September	Purchase autumn planting sets and prepare growing areas.
October	Plant suitable autumn shallot varieties.
November	Continue planting where recommended and monitor drainage.
December	Check winter-growing crops and avoid waterlogging.

The exact growing calendar depends on the variety and weather conditions in your part of Britain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Shallots

Are shallots easy to grow in the UK?

Yes. Shallots are relatively straightforward, especially when grown from healthy sets in fertile, well-drained soil.

What is the best month to plant shallots?

March and April are suitable for many spring sets. October is excellent for varieties specifically recommended for autumn planting.

Can you plant shallots in October?

Yes, provided the variety is suitable for autumn planting.

Can shallots be planted in November?

Some overwintering varieties can be planted in November when conditions are suitable.

Can you plant shallots in February?

Yes. Late winter can be suitable for spring sets where the soil is workable.

How deep should you plant shallots?

Plant shallot sets shallowly, with the pointed tips just visible above the soil surface.

How far apart do you plant shallot sets?

Allow approximately 15–20 cm between sets and 25–30 cm between rows.

How many shallots grow from one set?

Traditional multiplying varieties produce several bulbs from one set. The exact number varies with the variety and growing conditions.

Do shallots need full sun?

Yes. Shallots grow best in a sunny position.

Can shallots grow in raised beds?

Yes. Raised beds can provide excellent conditions, especially where normal soil is heavy or poorly drained.

Can shallots grow in pots?

Yes. Choose a container at least approximately 30 cm wide and deep with suitable drainage.

Can you grow shallots from seeds?

Yes. Seeds can be sown under cover in late winter or outdoors during mid-spring.

Do shallots grown from seed produce clusters?

Usually, each individual seed-raised plant produces one bulb, while traditional shallot sets multiply into clusters.

Do shallots need feeding?

They benefit from fertile soil. Additional feeding may help in poor soil or containers.

Can I feed shallots with chicken manure pellets?

Yes, if used at the appropriate rate, but avoid excessive feeding.

Should you water shallots every day?

No. Water according to soil moisture, weather and growing stage.

Do shallots survive winter?

Suitable overwintering varieties can survive normal UK winter conditions in well-drained soil.

Why are my shallots bolting?

Temperature stress, particularly cold exposure at a sensitive growth stage, can trigger flowering.

Should you remove shallot flowers?

Yes, if you’re growing for bulbs, remove flower stems as they form.

Why are my shallots not growing?

Possible reasons include cold weather, waterlogging, poor planting material, drought, shade or pest and disease problems.

When are shallots ready to harvest?

They are commonly ready during mid- to late summer when the foliage yellows and falls over.

How long do shallots take to grow?

The growing period varies by planting date and variety, but spring-planted sets are commonly harvested during the summer of the same year.

How do you dry shallots after harvesting?

Spread sound bulbs in a single layer in dry, airy conditions until the foliage and skins are dry and papery.

How long do shallots last in storage?

Properly cured shallots commonly keep for six to eight months, sometimes longer depending on variety and conditions.

Can you save shallots to plant next year?

Yes. Healthy, mature bulbs from suitable varieties can be saved and replanted.

Are shallots better than onions?

Neither is universally better. Shallots generally have a milder flavour and are particularly useful for sauces and dressings, while ordinary onions are versatile for larger-scale cooking.

Final Thoughts: Why Shallots Deserve a Place on Your Allotment

Growing shallots is a brilliant way to produce delicious home-grown food without needing enormous amounts of growing space.

They’re particularly rewarding because traditional sets can multiply to produce clusters of bulbs from a relatively small planting.

Whether you’re growing them in a raised bed, ordinary vegetable plot or large patio container, the basic requirements are straightforward.

Choose healthy planting sets or suitable seeds.

Plant them during the recommended season.

Provide plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.

Allow enough space for the bulbs to develop.

Then, as spring and summer arrive, keep weeds under control and monitor soil moisture.

One of the biggest things to remember is that shallots don’t like sitting in wet soil.

This is especially important for autumn planting in the UK, where prolonged winter rainfall can create difficult conditions.

When harvesting time arrives, wait for the foliage to begin yellowing and falling over naturally.

Carefully lift the clusters, separate the bulbs and allow them to dry thoroughly.

Once cured, healthy shallots can provide delicious ingredients for the kitchen over many months.

If you’ve never grown shallots before, I’d definitely recommend trying them.

They’re easy to manage, excellent for cooking and a fantastic addition to a productive allotment.

And if you’re already growing garlic and onions, shallots fit beautifully into your gardening plans.

Just remember that all three crops belong to the same plant family, so sensible crop rotation and good plant health are important.

With a little preparation and care, you’ll soon be harvesting your very own home-grown shallots.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!