Shallot Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Shallot Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Shallots

Planting Schedule:
Begin indoors with shallots and storage onions in late winter to early spring, readying them for transplanting 2-4 weeks after the last frost. For overwintering varieties, start in early summer for mid-August transplantation. Direct sow scallions every 3 weeks from two weeks after the frost until late summer, aiming for a soil temperature of 21-25°C (70-75°F) for germination, with seeds emerging in 6-12 days.


Seed Starting:
For optimal growth, start seeds in trays, sowing 3 seeds about 5mm-1cm (¼-½") deep per cell. When transplanting, maintain clumps 15cm (6") apart in rows 45-75cm (18-30") apart. Scallions require closer spacing of 2-5cm (1-2") in rows 15cm (6") apart for efficient growth.


Growing:
Aim for a soil pH of 5.5-6.5. Ensure your soil is fertile, well-drained, and receives full sunlight. Incorporate well-rotted compost and a balanced organic fertilizer below each row. Maintain consistent moisture near the surface to support bulb formation. Remember, larger tops lead to larger bulbs. For scallions planted in August, prepare for frost with protective covers.


Cease watering in early August to allow bulbs to mature. Once half the tops have bent, collapse the rest, wait a week, then harvest. Curing in a well-ventilated, shaded area is crucial for longevity. Store in mesh sacks or braids in a cool, dry location. Regularly inspect and remove any that begin to spoil. Properly cured shallots can last until the late spring.

Shallots Pests & Diseases

Botrytis Blast:
To prevent Botrytis blast, a fungal disease that affects scallions, ensure good air circulation around your plants by spacing them properly and avoiding overcrowded conditions.

Implement a crop rotation strategy to avoid planting alliums in the same spot year after year, as this can reduce the build-up of fungal spores in the soil. Water the base of the plants early in the day, giving them time to dry before evening, to keep the foliage as dry as possible. If you detect the disease, remove and destroy affected plants to prevent its spread.

For organic control, apply a copper-based fungicide as a preventive measure during humid or wet conditions, following label directions closely.


Downy Mildew:
Downy mildew, another fungal issue, thrives in cool, wet conditions. To fend off this disease:

1. Water your scallions in the morning so the plants have time to dry throughout the day.
2. Ensure proper spacing between your scallions to improve airflow and reduce humidity levels around the plants.

Use organic fungicides and follow the instructions carefully to prevent the disease from spreading. Keep the garden clean by removing plant debris after the growing season to reduce the risk of downy mildew.