Favorable conditions for planting shallots
The best time to plant shallots is March or April. In zones with a mild climate, planting can also take place in autumn. The shallot cuttings survive the winter without any major problems and bring an earlier harvest. Although this type of bulb can withstand the cold, it should be planted in a warm and, above all, sunny place. The warmer it gets during the growing season, the more daughter bulbs the plant will produce.
The soil for the shallots is loose, nutrient-rich and humus. A generous dose of compost is used as initial fertilization; further fertilization is not required.
When sticking the onions, care must be taken to ensure that there is sufficient space between them, since the shallot forms real "onion nests" in the best case.
also read
- Growing aromatic shallots properly
- The little difference between shallots and onions
- Harvest shallots in your own garden
How do you plant shallots?
For the planting of shallots, so-called "onion sets" are usually required, which are available from seed dealers. Shallots from the discounter cannot be used for planting, as these bulbs have been treated with agents that prevent germination.
The soil in the bed is prepared for planting by raking in compost. Then the onion sets are inserted 5 cm deep into the ground at a distance of about 20 cm. About a third of the shallot sticks out of the ground. The individual rows are approximately 30 cm apart.
An even water supply must be ensured during the growing season. If there is too little moisture, the daughter onions cannot develop properly. In addition, the weeds should be removed regularly.
What to do when flowers develop?
Some onions tend to flower prematurely. This has a negative effect on the formation of daughter onions. The best way to get a good harvest is to remove the buds immediately.
Anyone who pays attention to heat-treated seeds during planting will rule out unwanted bloom formation from the outset.
Pull shallots from seeds
Of course, shallots can also be sown. The seeds develop slowly, weeds cover the small plants in a very short time. To avoid this, it is best to sow the onions in a seed bed. When the young bulbs develop the third leaf after 4 to 6 weeks, they can be planted outdoors. You have to be extremely careful here so as not to damage the young plants. Regular weeding ensures sufficient space.
Growing shallots from seeds is a labor-intensive affair and rather unsuitable for the hobby gardener.