Shallot

Shallots prefer fertile, well-drained soil at pH 6.0-7.0 and struggle in waterlogged beds. Add compost and feed with nitrogen early in growth, then stop nitrogen feeding when bulbs begin swelling so they mature properly.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

6 in

First harvest

90–120 days

Tips

• Set bulbs point-up 6 inches apart with their tips just at the soil surface.
• Water shallow roots regularly during active growth, then stop irrigating as foliage yellows and falls.
• Keep weeds down with shallow cultivation so developing bulbs and roots are not damaged.
• Watch for thrips and onion maggots, and rotate away from beds recently planted with other alliums.
• Lift clusters when most tops have fallen and cure in a dry, shaded, airy place until necks and skins are dry.

Plant sound shallot sets in early spring as soil becomes workable, or in fall where winters are mild and beds drain well.