Shallots are basically mild onions; they reproduce by bulb division underground and require the same growing conditions as garlic. When their green shoots show above ground level, they can be cut off and used like chives.
Shallots need to be planted about 20cm apart making sure the pointed end is facing upwards, plant them deep enough so the tops are just visible. They should produce six to ten bulbs per plant. Like garlic they are also planted on the shortest day and harvested on the longest. Prepare them in the same way you would garlic, in a well-ventilated, dry situation. Well-cured shallots will keep for at least nine months. |