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 1.4-1.8 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 12–25°C (cool to moderate). Moderate light (DLI 15-22 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 the tops fall over and begin drying, then cure in a warm, dry, ventilated area for 2-3 weeks; well-cured shallots store 3-6 months at room temperature. Green shallot tops are edible during growth, used like green onions. For French cooking the effort pays off, since shallots are expensive at retail and fresh, homegrown bulbs are noticeably better than the often-sprouting imported product.