Shallot
Allium cepa var. aggregatum
Also known asFrench shallot · Cuisse de poulet · Échalote
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–10 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- frost hardy
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| vegetative | 2 | 2 | 3 | 1.6 |
Companion-growing notes
- Heavy uptake of phosphorus. Co-grown crops with the same demand will end up deficient even at "correct" EC.
- Releases root compounds that can inhibit other crops in a shared reservoir.
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A moderate-difficulty allium for media beds or containers (10 cm depth). EC 1.5-2.5 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 12–25°C (cool to moderate). Moderate light (DLI 14-20 mol/m2/day). Plant sets (small bulbs) 2–3 cm deep in early spring or fall. Each set produces a cluster of 3-8 new bulbs over 90-120 days. Harvest when tops fall over and begin drying. Cure in a warm, dry, ventilated area for 2-3 weeks. Properly cured shallots store for 3-6 months at room temperature. Green shallot tops are edible during growth (use like green onions). For French cooking, the investment in growing shallots pays off: they're expensive at retail ($8-15/kg) and the quality of fresh, homegrown shallots is noticeably better than the often-sprouting imported product.