Shallot Sets 1/2 lb. : These heirloom shallots grow a lot like garlic in clusters of offsets with a head composed of multiple cloves, but they are a member of the onion family. Plant grows to about 8" tall and the shallots grows to about 1/2" in diameter. Shallots have a taste that is somewhat like a common onion, but have a sweeter, milder, yet richer flavor. Younger leaves can be used like chives. Shallot are great when use in fresh cooking.
Planting Shallots : Shallots grow well in average garden soil, but do best in rich well-drained soil with a lot of organic matter. Sets can be planted in fall or early to mid spring. Shallots require a dormant period of about 30 days soon after planting with temperatures between 32° and 50°F. Shallots will produce a heaver yield if the soil is kept evenly moist. Shallot set should be planted six to eight inches apart. Depth of planting should but so that the tops of the shallot sets are just barely below the soil and the pointed tip is up. The optimum PH for shallot is 5.5 to 6.8. Shallots will grow in soil temperatures ranging from 35°F to 90°F. Shallots grow best in full sun, but they will tolerate partial sun.
Caring For Shallots : Shallots do well when planted in soil that has had aged compost added to it, with more aged compost added at mid season. Kept the soil evenly moist and do not allow to soil to dry out. Shallots grow best when they are kept free from weeds so that they do not have to compete for nutrients and water. Shallot roots are shallow so take care when cultivation or weeding is done. Fertilizer by adding 3# of 10-10-10 per 100 sq. feet into the soil before planting. A side dress of 2# of 10-10-10 per 100 sq. feet should be added twice during the growing season.
Harvesting Shallots : The green top can cut after about 30 days of growing. The green set can be dug and used about 45 to 50 days after planting. Mature bulbs can be harvested after the tops wither and turn brown. Hang to mature bulbs up to dry, or store them in a mesh bag with good air flow.
Common Shallot Problems :
DISEASES: downy mildew, bacterial soft rot, neck rot
INSECTS: onion maggot, onion thrips