How to Grow Shallots — Croft & Covey

Growing Conditions

Shallots prefer the same conditions as onions — full sun, fertile well-draining soil, consistent moisture — but are less sensitive to day length. They tolerate frost and can be planted earlier in spring or in fall for overwintering. They perform reliably across a wide range of climates.

Cold climates: Plant sets in early spring as soon as soil can be worked, or in fall 4–6 weeks before hard freeze for overwintering (mulch well). Spring planting is more reliable in Zone 5.

Warm climates: Fall planting for spring harvest works well in mild-winter climates.

Sowing & Planting

Plant sets 1 inch deep, pointed end up, 6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart. Each set will multiply into a cluster — give them room. Shallots can also be started from seed (sow indoors 10–12 weeks before transplanting) but sets are faster and more reliable.

Care & Maintenance

Same as onions: consistent moisture, regular feeding with nitrogen-rich amendments through midsummer, and good weed control. Stop watering when tops begin to yellow and fall over.

Common Problems

Shallots share the same pest and disease vulnerabilities as onions — thrips, downy mildew, and neck rot in storage. All are managed the same way. Shallots are generally less troubled by bolting than onions.

Harvest

Harvest when tops have fallen over and begun to dry — typically midsummer. Lift the entire cluster with a fork. Separate individual bulbs and cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated spot for 2–3 weeks. Store in a cool, dry location — shallots keep 6–8 months.

Save some of the best bulbs for replanting the following season. Shallots are one of the few vegetables where saving your own planting stock each year is straightforward and worthwhile.

Varieties

Dutch Yellow shallots are the most commonly available type — reliable, good flavor, good storage. French gray shallots (grise) are considered superior in flavor by many cooks but are harder to find and slightly more finicky. Banana shallots are elongated with a milder flavor. For a home garden, Dutch Yellow is the practical starting point.