How to Dry, Cure and Store Shallots – Complete UK Guide

Learning how to store shallots correctly is one of the best ways to make the most of your home-grown harvest, allowing you to enjoy delicious bulbs for months after lifting them from the allotment.

There’s nothing quite like harvesting your own shallots.

You plant a handful of small sets, look after them throughout the growing season and eventually lift clusters of beautiful bulbs from the soil.

But what happens next?

Should you leave the shallots outside in the sunshine?

Can you dry them in a greenhouse or shed?

Do you need to remove the leaves?

And what’s the best way to store shallots through autumn and winter without them becoming soft, mouldy or starting to sprout?

These are all important questions.

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

For me, harvesting vegetables isn’t simply about enjoying them on the day they’re picked.

It’s also about making the most of everything we’ve grown.

There’s something incredibly rewarding about opening a bag or tray of home-grown shallots during winter and using bulbs that were harvested months earlier.

But proper storage begins long before you put your shallots away.

In fact, one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make is storing bulbs before they’ve dried thoroughly.

Shallots need time to cure after harvesting.

This allows their outer skins and necks to dry properly, preparing them for long-term storage.

If you put freshly lifted shallots straight into a sealed container, you could quickly end up with condensation, mould or rotten bulbs.

The good news is that storing shallots isn’t particularly complicated.

You don’t need expensive equipment or a specialist storage room.

With suitable drying racks, good ventilation and the right conditions, home-grown shallots can often keep for six to eight months or longer.

In this complete UK gardening guide, I’ll explain how to dry shallots after harvesting, what curing actually means, how long the process takes and the best storage methods.

We’ll also look at using greenhouses and sheds, storing shallots in mesh bags, preventing sprouting, recognising rotten bulbs and saving healthy shallots for next year’s planting.

So if you’ve just lifted a lovely crop from your allotment, let’s make sure those shallots last as long as possible!

Why Do Shallots Need Drying Before Storage?

Shallots are living bulbs containing moisture.

When they’re growing in the soil, their roots, leaves and bulbs are actively taking part in the plant’s normal growing processes.

As they mature, the foliage begins yellowing and falling over.

This is a sign that the plant is finishing its growing cycle.

However, even after harvesting, the outer skins and necks may still contain moisture.

If you store bulbs before they’re dry, that moisture can encourage deterioration.

What Is Curing?

Curing is the process of allowing harvested bulbs to dry under suitable conditions before they’re placed into long-term storage.

For shallots, this mainly involves drying the outer skins and foliage.

Why Is Curing Important?

Proper curing helps create a protective outer layer.

It also reduces the amount of moisture around the bulb’s neck.

Does Curing Make Shallots Completely Dry Inside?

No.

The edible inside of a properly cured shallot should still be firm and usable.

You’re drying the outside of the bulb, not turning the whole shallot into a dehydrated vegetable.

Can You Skip Curing?

You can use freshly harvested shallots straight away in cooking.

However, if you want them to last for months, curing is strongly recommended.

Gardening with Ben tip: One of the most important things to remember is that a freshly harvested shallot and a properly cured storage shallot aren’t quite the same. If you want them to last through winter, give them time to dry.

When Should You Harvest Shallots for Storage?

Choosing the correct harvesting time is the first step towards successful storage.

Most shallots grown in the UK are harvested during mid- to late summer.

July and August are common harvesting months, although suitable autumn-planted varieties may mature earlier.

What Are the Signs Shallots Are Ready?

Look for:

• Leaves naturally turning yellow.
• Foliage beginning to fall over.
• Reduced new leaf growth.
• Firm, well-developed bulbs.
• Outer skins starting to mature.

Should You Wait Until Every Leaf Is Brown?

Not necessarily.

Once the plants show normal maturity signs, you can check whether the bulbs are ready.

Can You Store Shallots Harvested Too Early?

Immature bulbs are generally less reliable for long-term storage.

Their necks may remain moist and the outer skins may not have developed properly.

Can You Leave Mature Shallots in Wet Soil?

It’s better not to leave them in persistently wet ground for long periods.

If the crop is mature and prolonged rain is expected, lifting the shallots and moving them somewhere sheltered may be sensible.

Can You Store Shallots That Have Bolted?

Bulbs from shallots that have produced flower stems may not store as well.

Use those first rather than relying on them for long-term storage.

How to Harvest Shallots Without Damaging Them

Careful harvesting helps improve the chances of successful storage.

Cuts and bruises can create points where deterioration begins.

Step 1: Check for Maturity

Look for naturally yellowing and falling foliage.

Step 2: Prepare a Garden Fork

A hand fork or garden fork works well.

Step 3: Loosen the Soil

Insert the fork a short distance away from the bulbs.

Step 4: Lift Carefully

Gently lever the plants upwards.

Step 5: Avoid Pulling Hard on the Leaves

The necks may already be weakening as the foliage dries.

Step 6: Separate Traditional Clusters

Multiplying shallots may produce several bulbs from each planted set.

Carefully divide the bulbs once they’re lifted.

Step 7: Remove Loose Soil

Shake or brush away loose soil.

Avoid knocking the bulbs together.

Step 8: Inspect the Harvest

Look for damaged, soft or visibly diseased bulbs.

Step 9: Keep Varieties Separate

If you’ve grown several varieties, label the harvested groups.

Step 10: Move the Bulbs to a Drying Area

Begin curing as soon as practical.

How to Dry Shallots After Harvesting – Step-by-Step

This is the main method I recommend for preparing a healthy shallot harvest for storage.

Step 1: Choose Healthy Shallots

Select mature, sound bulbs.

Don’t include rotten or severely damaged shallots in the storage crop.

Step 2: Leave the Drying Foliage Attached Initially

There’s no need to immediately cut the leaves from every bulb.

Allow the foliage and necks to dry.

Step 3: Choose a Suitable Drying Location

Good options include:

• A dry outdoor area during settled sunny weather.
• A well-ventilated greenhouse.
• A dry garden shed.
• A sheltered, airy outbuilding.

Step 4: Prepare Drying Racks

Wire racks and slatted trays are particularly useful.

They allow air to circulate around the bulbs.

Step 5: Spread the Shallots in a Single Layer

Don’t pile them into deep heaps.

Give each bulb access to moving air.

Step 6: Avoid Direct Contact with Damp Surfaces

Don’t leave shallots sitting on wet concrete or damp timber.

Use a suitable drying surface.

Step 7: Provide Good Ventilation

Air circulation helps excess moisture escape.

Step 8: Protect from Rain

If you’re drying shallots outdoors, bring them under cover when wet weather is expected.

Step 9: Avoid Excessive Heat

A greenhouse can become extremely hot during summer.

Provide ventilation and avoid conditions that scorch or cook the bulbs.

Step 10: Turn or Reposition if Necessary

If one side remains damp, gently adjust the bulbs to improve airflow.

Step 11: Allow Around Two Weeks

The RHS suggests approximately two weeks for drying shallots in suitable conditions.

Damp weather may require longer.

Step 12: Inspect the Leaves

They should become dry and papery.

Step 13: Check the Necks

The necks should be dry rather than thick, soft or wet.

Step 14: Check the Outer Skins

They should feel dry and papery.

Step 15: Remove Any Deteriorating Bulbs

Discard shallots showing clear signs of rot or mould.

Step 16: Trim Fully Dried Foliage

Once the bulbs are cured, trim away remaining dry leaves as appropriate.

Step 17: Choose a Storage Container

Use mesh bags, shallow trays or other breathable containers.

Step 18: Move to a Cool, Dry Storage Position

Keep the bulbs protected from frost and prolonged dampness.

Step 19: Label the Harvest

Record the variety and harvesting date.

Step 20: Check Regularly

Inspect your stored shallots throughout autumn and winter.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you remember only one thing about drying shallots, make it this: spread them out rather than piling them into a bucket. Good airflow makes such a difference.

How Long Does It Take to Cure Shallots?

Under good summer conditions, shallots commonly take around two weeks to cure.

However, this isn’t a fixed deadline.

Can Shallots Dry in Seven Days?

Some bulbs may appear dry after a week, particularly during warm, dry weather.

However, don’t assume they’re completely cured.

Is Two Weeks Always Enough?

No.

High humidity or poor airflow can slow the drying process.

Can Curing Take Three Weeks?

Yes.

During damp UK weather, curing can take longer.

What Matters More Than the Number of Days?

The actual condition of the bulbs.

The necks, outer skins and foliage should be thoroughly dry.

Should You Leave Shallots Drying for Months?

No.

Once they’re properly cured, move them into suitable long-term storage conditions.

How to Tell If Shallots Are Fully Cured

It’s worth inspecting the bulbs rather than relying entirely on the calendar.

Sign 1: Papery Outer Skins

The skins should feel dry.

Sign 2: Dry Necks

The necks should no longer feel soft or moist.

Sign 3: Completely Dry Foliage

The remaining leaves should become crisp and papery.

Sign 4: Firm Bulbs

The bulbs themselves should remain firm.

Sign 5: No Visible Rot

There should be no wet decay, soft patches or mould.

What If the Outer Skin Is Dry but the Neck Is Wet?

Continue drying.

The neck can be an important point where decay develops during storage.

What If the Bulb Is Soft?

Don’t store it with healthy shallots.

Investigate whether it’s drying out excessively or beginning to rot.

Can You Dry Shallots Outside in the Sunshine?

Yes.

The RHS recommends drying shallots outdoors in full sun during suitable settled weather.

What Are the Advantages?

Natural airflow and warm, dry conditions can help the curing process.

What Are the Disadvantages?

The British weather can change quickly.

Rain and high humidity may interrupt drying.

Can You Leave Shallots Outside Overnight?

Only when conditions remain reliably dry and the bulbs are protected from moisture.

If heavy dew or rain is expected, move them under cover.

Should You Dry Them on the Soil?

It’s better to use raised racks or trays.

This improves airflow and avoids contact with damp ground.

Is Strong Sunshine Always Good?

Warm, dry sunshine can be useful, but avoid excessive heat that damages the bulbs.

How to Dry Shallots in a Greenhouse

A greenhouse can be excellent for drying shallots during a damp British summer.

However, ventilation is essential.

Why Use a Greenhouse?

It protects the harvest from direct rainfall.

It can provide warm drying conditions.

Should the Greenhouse Doors Be Open?

Provide sufficient ventilation so moisture doesn’t become trapped.

Can It Get Too Hot?

Yes.

Temperatures can rise very quickly on sunny days.

Avoid leaving shallots in conditions that cause overheating or scorching.

Can You Use Greenhouse Shelves?

Yes.

Mesh or slatted staging can provide excellent airflow.

Should You Put Shallots in Plastic Trays?

Shallow trays with good ventilation can work.

Avoid deep, poorly ventilated containers.

Is an Unheated Greenhouse Better?

An ordinary ventilated greenhouse is sufficient when conditions are suitable.

You don’t need to heat a greenhouse specifically to cure shallots.

How to Dry Shallots in a Garden Shed

A shed is another practical option, particularly when the weather is wet.

What Kind of Shed Is Best?

Choose a dry shed with good ventilation.

Can You Use a Dark Shed for Curing?

A sheltered shed can be useful during curing, provided airflow is good and conditions are dry.

For longer-term storage, the RHS recommends a light rather than dark position to discourage sprouting.

Can You Dry Shallots on Shelves?

Yes.

Wire shelves or slatted wooden racks work well.

Should You Open the Shed Door?

Ventilation is helpful during suitable weather.

What About Damp Sheds?

A shed with condensation, leaks or persistent humidity isn’t suitable.

Can You Dry Shallots in a Garage?

Yes, if it’s dry, well ventilated and free from conditions that could contaminate stored food.

Keep bulbs away from fuel, chemicals and dirty surfaces.

Can You Dry Shallots Indoors?

Yes, if you have a dry, airy location.

What About a Utility Room?

A cool, ventilated utility area may be suitable.

Can You Use an Airing Cupboard?

An enclosed, overly warm airing cupboard isn’t my preferred option.

Shallots need airflow, not just heat.

Can You Dry Them on a Windowsill?

A windowsill may work for a very small crop if conditions are suitable, but don’t allow the bulbs to become excessively hot or damp.

Is a Kitchen Cupboard Suitable?

Most enclosed kitchen cupboards provide less airflow than ideal during initial curing.

What About a Spare Room?

A dry, reasonably cool room with suitable ventilation can be used.

Protect surfaces from any loose soil or drying plant debris.

Should You Wash Shallots Before Drying?

For shallots intended for long-term storage, it’s generally best not to wash them.

Why Avoid Washing?

Washing introduces extra moisture.

This can make thorough curing more difficult.

What Should You Do with Soil?

Gently shake or brush away loose dirt.

What If the Soil Is Wet?

Allow it to dry before brushing carefully.

Can You Wash Shallots Before Cooking?

Of course.

Once you’re ready to use a bulb, you can clean and prepare it as required.

What If a Shallot Is Covered in Mud?

If it is otherwise healthy, allow the mud to dry in an airy location before carefully removing it.

Should You Remove the Leaves Before Storing Shallots?

Wait until the foliage is properly dry.

Can You Cut the Leaves Immediately After Harvest?

You can use freshly harvested bulbs straight away, but for long-term storage it’s sensible to let the foliage and necks dry before trimming.

Why Does the Neck Matter?

A wet or damaged neck can become a place where decay begins.

How Much Foliage Should You Leave?

Once it’s fully cured, trim the remaining dry foliage, leaving the neck intact rather than cutting into the bulb.

Can You Plait Shallot Leaves?

If the foliage remains sufficiently flexible and intact, shallots can sometimes be arranged into decorative strings.

However, mesh bags or shallow trays are usually simpler.

Should You Remove the Roots?

Dry roots can be trimmed carefully once curing is complete.

Avoid damaging the basal plate.

What Is the Best Way to Store Shallots?

Store healthy, fully cured shallots somewhere cool, dry, light and well ventilated.

This is the storage approach recommended by the RHS.

Why Cool?

Cool conditions slow deterioration.

Why Dry?

Persistent moisture encourages mould and decay.

Why Ventilated?

Good airflow prevents moisture building up around the bulbs.

Why Light?

The RHS advises avoiding dark storage positions because darkness can encourage sprouting.

This doesn’t mean placing shallots in strong, hot sunlight all winter.

A cool, naturally lit, frost-protected location is ideal.

Should They Be Frost-Free?

Yes.

Protect stored shallots from freezing, which can damage the bulbs and reduce their keeping quality.

Should You Store Them in Direct Sunlight?

Not if it will make them warm.

The priority is a cool, stable environment with some light and good ventilation.

Best Containers for Storing Shallots

Different containers can work well as long as air can circulate.

1. Mesh Bags

Mesh bags are particularly useful.

They allow air to pass through the bulbs.

2. Net Bags

The RHS specifically recommends net bags for cured shallots.

3. Shallow Wooden Trays

A wooden slatted tray allows bulbs to be spread out.

4. Wire Baskets

Open baskets with good airflow can be suitable.

5. Ventilated Plastic Trays

Shallow trays with plenty of air openings may work well.

6. Slatted Shelves

You can store bulbs in a single layer on suitable shelves.

What Should You Avoid?

Avoid sealed plastic bags, airtight boxes and deep containers that trap moisture.

Is One Layer Better Than Several?

A single layer makes inspection easier and improves airflow.

If using mesh bags, avoid overfilling them.

Can You Store Shallots in Plastic Bags?

Sealed plastic bags are not suitable for storing whole cured shallots for months.

Why Not?

Moisture can accumulate inside.

What Happens Then?

Condensation can encourage mould and rotting.

What About Perforated Bags?

Breathable storage can be appropriate, but mesh bags and ventilated trays are generally simpler.

Can You Use a Plastic Storage Box?

Only if it has an appropriate open, ventilated arrangement.

An airtight plastic box isn’t recommended.

Can You Store Shallots in a Fridge?

Whole, properly cured shallots are normally better stored in suitable cool, dry, ventilated conditions rather than relying on an ordinary household fridge for long-term keeping.

Why Isn’t the Fridge Ideal?

A fridge can be humid.

Condensation can develop if bulbs aren’t stored appropriately.

What About Peeled Shallots?

Once peeled or cut, shallots should be refrigerated promptly in a covered food-safe container.

Use them within a few days.

Can You Refrigerate Chopped Shallots?

Yes.

Keep them covered, chilled and use promptly.

Are Whole Shallots Different?

Yes.

Whole cured bulbs are intended for dry storage, while peeled or chopped shallots are perishable prepared food.

How Long Can You Store Shallots?

The RHS advises that properly dried shallots generally store for at least six to eight months.

Some varieties may keep longer under excellent conditions.

Will Shallots Last Until Christmas?

Many summer-harvested shallots can remain usable until Christmas if they’ve been cured and stored correctly.

Can They Last Until January?

Yes.

Can They Last Until March?

Some varieties may remain in good condition, depending on storage conditions.

Can Shallots Store for a Whole Year?

Don’t rely on that.

Storage life varies, and bulbs gradually lose quality.

What Shortens Storage Life?

Poor curing, damage, excessive warmth, dampness, unsuitable storage and disease can all cause problems.

Which Shallots Store Best?

Some varieties have particularly good keeping qualities.

‘Longor’, ‘Matador’ and several other recognised storage varieties are worth considering.

Is Variety More Important Than Drying?

Both matter.

Even a good storage variety can rot if placed into unsuitable conditions before it’s fully cured.

How to Stop Shallots Sprouting in Storage

Sprouting means the bulb has started producing new green growth.

Stored shallots remain living bulbs and can eventually break dormancy.

Why Do Shallots Sprout?

Warm temperatures, unsuitable storage conditions and the natural end of dormancy can all encourage new growth.

Does Darkness Encourage Sprouting?

The RHS advises avoiding dark storage because it can encourage sprouting.

What Should You Do?

Keep shallots cool, dry, airy and in a suitably light position.

Can You Stop Sprouting Completely?

Not necessarily.

All bulbs have a natural life cycle.

What If a Shallot Starts Sprouting?

Inspect it.

If it’s still firm and sound, it may be suitable for prompt cooking after removing any deteriorated material.

Can You Replant Sprouting Shallots?

Healthy bulbs from suitable traditional varieties may be used for planting at the appropriate time.

However, don’t use visibly diseased or decaying bulbs.

Why Are My Stored Shallots Rotting?

Rotting is one of the most disappointing problems after a successful harvest.

Cause 1: Poor Curing

The necks or outer skins may not have dried fully.

Cause 2: Excess Humidity

Damp storage conditions encourage deterioration.

Cause 3: Poor Ventilation

Still, moist air can collect around the bulbs.

Cause 4: Bruising

Damaged bulbs are more vulnerable to decay.

Cause 5: Diseased Bulbs

Some infections may become apparent during storage.

Cause 6: Excessive Storage Temperatures

Warm conditions can reduce storage life.

Cause 7: Freezing Damage

If bulbs freeze and thaw, their tissues may deteriorate.

What Should You Do If One Shallot Rots?

Remove it immediately.

Check nearby bulbs carefully.

Improve airflow and investigate humidity or temperature problems.

Can Rotten Shallots Be Saved?

Do not eat visibly rotten or mouldy bulbs.

Discard them appropriately.

Why Are My Stored Shallots Going Soft?

Soft shallots may be losing moisture or deteriorating.

Can Shallots Dry Out Too Much?

Yes.

Over time, bulbs can shrivel and lose firmness.

What About a Wet, Soft Bulb?

Wet softness is more concerning because it may indicate rot.

What Should You Check?

Look for:

• Mould.
• Unusual odours.
• Wet patches.
• Collapsing tissues.
• Shrivelling.
• Sprouting.

Can You Use Slightly Shrivelled Shallots?

A bulb that has simply dried out may still be usable if sound, but discard anything showing mould, rot or an off smell.

Should You Store Soft Bulbs with Healthy Ones?

No.

Remove deteriorating bulbs from the storage crop.

Should You Store Shallots with Onions and Garlic?

They can be kept in the same general storage area when the conditions are suitable.

However, I’d recommend keeping the different crops in separate, labelled containers.

Why Keep Them Separate?

They may have different keeping qualities.

It’s easier to check for spoilage.

You can identify varieties more easily.

What About Potatoes?

Potatoes generally prefer dark storage, while the RHS recommends keeping shallots in a light storage position.

For that reason, separate storage areas are preferable.

Can They Share a Shed?

Yes, if each crop has suitable conditions.

Should You Mix Shallots and Garlic in One Mesh Bag?

I’d avoid it.

Keeping them separately makes inspection and stock management easier.

Can You Freeze Shallots Instead of Storing Them Whole?

Yes.

Freezing is useful when you have shallots that need using soon or when you want a convenient supply for cooking.

However, freezing changes their texture.

Can You Freeze Raw Shallots?

Yes.

Peel and chop sound, clean shallots, then freeze promptly in suitable food-safe containers or freezer bags.

Do You Need to Blanch Shallots?

Chopped shallots are commonly frozen without blanching for later cooking.

What Happens to the Texture?

They become softer after thawing.

Are Frozen Shallots Good for Salads?

Fresh shallots are generally better for dishes where a crisp raw texture is important.

What Are Frozen Shallots Good For?

They work particularly well in:

• Soups.
• Stews.
• Sauces.
• Curries.
• Casseroles.
• Cooked vegetable dishes.

Can You Freeze Whole Shallots?

You can, but peeling and chopping before freezing is often more convenient.

How Should You Label Them?

Write the preparation and freezing date clearly.

For best quality, use within a few months, even though food kept continuously frozen at a safe temperature can remain safe longer.

Can You Dehydrate Shallots?

Yes.

Dehydrating removes substantially more moisture from shallots than ordinary curing.

The two processes aren’t the same.

What Is the Difference?

Curing prepares whole bulbs for dry storage while leaving the inside edible and relatively moist.

Dehydrating removes moisture from sliced or chopped shallots to make a dry ingredient.

What Can You Do with Dehydrated Shallots?

Use them in seasonings, soups, sauces and savoury dishes.

Can You Make Shallot Flakes?

Yes, with a suitable food dehydrator and an established food-safe drying method.

Can You Make Shallot Powder?

Fully dried shallot flakes can be ground into powder.

How Should You Store Dehydrated Shallots?

Use suitable airtight containers once completely dry and cooled.

Protect them from moisture.

Is This Necessary?

No.

For most gardeners, correctly curing whole shallots is the simplest storage method.

Can You Store Shallots in Oil?

Fresh shallots stored in oil require particular food-safety care.

Don’t assume that covering fresh shallots with oil makes them safe for storage at room temperature.

Low-oxygen conditions can create a botulism risk if food is prepared and stored incorrectly.

If you want to make shallot-infused oil or preserve shallots in oil, follow a tested food-safety recipe with the correct refrigeration, preservation and shelf-life instructions.

For a normal home-grown crop, dry storage, refrigeration of prepared shallots or freezing are simpler options.

Can You Save Stored Shallots for Planting Next Year?

Yes, with suitable traditional multiplying shallot varieties.

You may be able to save healthy bulbs from your own harvest.

Which Bulbs Should You Save?

Choose firm, mature bulbs from healthy plants.

Should You Save Your Biggest Bulbs?

Bulb choice depends on the variety and your intended planting method.

Select sound, well-developed bulbs rather than damaged or diseased ones.

Should You Store Planting Bulbs Separately?

Yes.

Label them with the cultivar and harvest year.

When Can You Plant Them?

At the recommended planting season for the variety.

What About Sprouting?

Some stored bulbs may naturally begin sprouting as dormancy ends.

Check their health before considering replanting.

Can You Save Bulbs from Diseased Plants?

No.

Avoid saving planting material from plants suspected of having onion white rot or other serious diseases.

How Often Should You Check Stored Shallots?

Regular inspections are a simple way to reduce losses.

During the First Few Weeks

Check frequently for bulbs that weren’t completely cured.

During Autumn

Inspect storage trays or bags every week or two.

During Winter

Continue checking regularly.

What Should You Look For?

• Soft bulbs.
• Wet patches.
• Visible mould.
• Unusual odours.
• Sprouting.
• Shrivelling.
• Condensation.
• Signs of pests.

What If Several Bulbs Are Rotting?

Review the storage environment.

Check whether the area is too warm, damp or poorly ventilated.

Should You Rotate Your Supplies?

Yes.

Use bulbs that are beginning to lose quality before those still in excellent condition.

Ten Common Mistakes When Storing Shallots

1. Storing Before They’re Fully Dry

Wet necks and skins can encourage rot.

2. Washing Before Curing

Extra moisture makes drying more difficult.

3. Using Sealed Plastic Bags

These trap moisture.

4. Overfilling Storage Containers

Crowded bulbs have less airflow.

5. Keeping Shallots Somewhere Damp

Humid sheds and condensation-prone cupboards can cause problems.

6. Storing Near Excessive Heat

Warm temperatures shorten keeping quality and can encourage sprouting.

7. Allowing Shallots to Freeze

Freezing can damage the bulb tissue.

8. Mixing Damaged Bulbs with Healthy Ones

Use damaged but otherwise sound bulbs promptly, and discard rotting ones.

9. Forgetting to Check the Harvest

One deteriorating bulb may affect nearby storage conditions.

10. Assuming Every Variety Stores for the Same Length of Time

Keeping quality varies significantly between cultivars.

UK Shallot Harvest and Storage Calendar

Month	Storage jobs
January	Check for sprouting, softness and deteriorating bulbs.
February	Use older shallots and inspect saved planting stock.
March	Continue checking stores and plant suitable saved sets where appropriate.
April	Finish using remaining good bulbs from the previous season.
May	Prepare your drying and storage equipment for summer.
June	Early crops may begin maturing; clean drying racks.
July	Harvest, cure and store early shallot crops.
August	Main curing and storage preparation period for many crops.
September	Check curing quality and organise labelled stores.
October	Inspect regularly as autumn weather becomes cooler and damper.
November	Remove deteriorating bulbs and check ventilation.
December	Use home-grown shallots for winter cooking and check storage conditions.

Actual dates vary according to harvesting time, variety and local growing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drying and Storing Shallots

How do you store shallots after harvesting?

Dry the bulbs thoroughly, then keep them in mesh bags or shallow trays somewhere cool, dry, light and well ventilated.

How long do shallots take to dry?

Around two weeks in favourable conditions, although damp weather may require longer.

How do you know when shallots are cured?

The leaves, necks and outer skins should be dry and papery, while the bulbs remain firm.

Do shallots need curing before storage?

Yes, if you want to store whole bulbs for months. Fresh shallots can be used immediately without long-term curing.

Can you dry shallots in a greenhouse?

Yes. A dry, well-ventilated greenhouse can work very well, but avoid excessive heat.

Can you dry shallots in a shed?

Yes, provided the shed is dry and airy.

Can you dry shallots outside?

Yes, during reliably warm and dry weather.

Can you dry shallots in the shade?

They can dry in a sheltered, airy position. Adequate airflow and dry conditions are important.

Can you dry shallots indoors?

Yes, in a suitable dry, well-ventilated area.

Should you wash shallots before drying?

No. Brush away loose soil rather than washing bulbs intended for long storage.

Should you remove the leaves after harvesting?

Allow the foliage and necks to dry fully before trimming them for storage.

Should you remove shallot roots?

Dry roots may be trimmed carefully after curing.

How long do home-grown shallots keep?

Properly cured shallots commonly keep for at least six to eight months.

Can shallots last until Christmas?

Yes. Many summer-harvested shallots can store successfully until Christmas.

Can shallots last until March?

Some may, depending on variety and storage conditions.

What’s the best container for storing shallots?

Mesh bags, net bags, shallow trays or ventilated baskets.

Can you store shallots in cardboard boxes?

A shallow, well-ventilated arrangement may work, but avoid deep, sealed or damp boxes.

Can you store shallots in plastic bags?

Avoid sealed plastic bags for whole cured bulbs because they trap moisture.

Should shallots be kept in the dark?

The RHS recommends a light storage position, explaining that darkness can encourage sprouting.

Do shallots need to be kept cool?

Yes. Cool, dry conditions help preserve them.

Can shallots freeze in a shed?

They can if temperatures fall below freezing. Protect your harvest from frost damage.

Can shallots be stored in a fridge?

Whole cured bulbs are generally better in suitable dry storage. Peeled or chopped shallots should be refrigerated promptly.

Why are my stored shallots rotting?

Poor curing, moisture, inadequate ventilation, physical damage or disease may be responsible.

Why are my shallots sprouting in storage?

Sprouting can occur as dormancy ends, particularly under unsuitable temperatures or storage conditions.

Can you eat sprouted shallots?

Firm, sound bulbs may still be usable for prompt cooking, but discard anything rotten or mouldy.

Can you eat soft shallots?

It depends on why they’re soft. Slight shrivelling differs from wet rot, but discard bulbs with mould, off odours or decayed tissue.

Can you freeze shallots?

Yes. Peeled, chopped shallots freeze well for later cooked dishes.

Can you dehydrate shallots?

Yes, using a suitable food dehydrator and established safe drying instructions.

Can you preserve fresh shallots in oil?

Only with a tested food-safe preservation method. Fresh alliums in oil should not be treated as shelf-stable without appropriate processing.

Can you store shallots with onions?

Yes, in the same suitable storage area, although separate labelled containers are more practical.

Can you save shallots for replanting?

Healthy bulbs from suitable traditional varieties can sometimes be saved as sets for the next planting season.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Shallot Harvest Last Longer

Learning how to dry, cure and store shallots is just as important as growing them successfully.

There’s no point putting months of effort into producing a fantastic crop only to lose it because the bulbs weren’t stored correctly.

And fortunately, the process is fairly straightforward.

Once your shallots have matured and their foliage has naturally begun yellowing and falling over, lift them carefully from the soil.

Avoid cutting or bruising the bulbs.

Then spread them out in a single layer on suitable racks or trays.

Allow plenty of air to circulate, protect them from wet weather and give them enough time to cure thoroughly.

In suitable conditions, drying commonly takes around two weeks.

But remember that the actual condition of the shallots matters more than the number of days.

Their skins and necks should be dry and papery before long-term storage.

Once they’re ready, choose a cool, dry, light and well-ventilated position.

Mesh bags and shallow trays are excellent options.

Avoid sealed plastic bags, damp cupboards and places that become excessively warm.

And don’t forget to check your stored shallots regularly.

If one begins rotting, remove it promptly before it affects the surrounding bulbs.

With the correct conditions, your home-grown shallots can often last for six to eight months or even longer.

That means you could be enjoying shallots harvested in summer right through the colder months.

You can use them in soups, stews, sauces, casseroles and plenty of other delicious home-cooked meals.

And if you’ve grown a particularly successful traditional variety, you may also be able to save a few healthy bulbs for replanting next season.

That’s one of the things I enjoy most about allotment gardening.

It’s not just about growing vegetables.

It’s about harvesting them, storing them and making the most of all the hard work you’ve put into your plot.

So when you lift your next shallot harvest, don’t rush to put everything away.

Give the bulbs time to cure, store them carefully and enjoy the results for months to come.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!