How To Sow & Grow Shallots

Growing Shallots from seed (Matador)

Sow no earlier than March to early May, in seed trays or module trays under protection. Provide a minimum germination temperature of 50°F (10°C), but ideally closer to 60°F (16°C). Set out when large enough to handle 8" (20 cm) apart in rows 8" (20 cm). Avoid planting out after the first week in June as bulbs will not mature properly from such late plantings. Keep weed-free at all times. Avoid over-watering, but water thoroughly in warm dry spells.

Growing Shallots from sets (Golden Gourmet and Pikant)

Plant out 6-8" (15-20 cm) apart in rows 8" (20 cm). Either take out a drill approximately 1" (2.5 cm) deep and push sets into the bottom of the drill (pointed side up) before covering with soil, leaving the tops just showing, or alternatively take out shallow holes with a dibber and pop in, again leaving the tops just showing. Recently planted sets may need to be protected with netting or similar to prevent birds pulling them out of the soil. Keep weed-free at all times. Avoid over-watering, but water thoroughly in warm dry spells.