---
title: How to plant Shallots in March
description: Learn how to plant shallots in March for a bountiful harvest. Follow our step-by-step guide for optimal growth and maintenance tips. Perfect for beginners.
---

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## ![Stepbystep guide to planting shallotsStep 1 Choose the right locationSelect a sunny open positionEnsure welldrained soilAvoid heavy waterlogged areasS-1](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/Stepbystep%20guide%20to%20planting%20shallotsStep%201%20Choose%20the%20right%20locationSelect%20a%20sunny%20open%20positionEnsure%20welldrained%20soilAvoid%20heavy%20waterlogged%20areasS-1.png?width=1024&height=1024&name=Stepbystep%20guide%20to%20planting%20shallotsStep%201%20Choose%20the%20right%20locationSelect%20a%20sunny%20open%20positionEnsure%20welldrained%20soilAvoid%20heavy%20waterlogged%20areasS-1.png)

## How to plant shallots in March

Shallots are a reliable, easy-to-grow crop that produce clusters of small, flavourful bulbs. Planting in March gives them a long growing season, helping them establish strong roots and develop well-sized bulbs by summer.

They are ideal for beginners and perform well in most garden spaces.

## Quick answer: how to plant shallots

To plant shallots, push sets into well-drained soil with the tip just showing above the surface, space them evenly, and grow in a sunny position. Keep the soil lightly moist and weed-free as they establish.

## Step-by-step guide to planting shallots

Step 1: Choose the right location

- Select a **sunny, open position**
- Ensure **well-drained soil**
- Avoid heavy, waterlogged areas

Step 2: Prepare the soil

- Loosen soil to around **15–20cm depth**
- Remove weeds and stones
- Rake to a fine, level surface

Step 3: Plant the sets

- Push sets into the soil so the **tip is just visible**
- Space **15–20cm apart**
- Space rows around **30cm apart**

Step 4: Firm and water lightly

- Gently firm soil around each set
- Water lightly after planting
- Avoid overwatering

Step 5: Maintain and protect

- Keep the area **weed-free**
- Protect from birds lifting sets
- Water during prolonged dry periods

## When to plant shallots

Shallots are best planted:

- In **March for spring planting**
- When soil is workable and not frozen
- Before active growth begins

Early planting allows bulbs to develop fully before summer.

## Best shallot varieties

- Golden Gourmet 
    - Reliable and widely grown
    - Good storage qualities
- Red Sun 
    - Slightly stronger flavour
    - Attractive red skins
- Jermor 
    - French variety
    - Longer bulbs with excellent flavour

Choose based on **flavour, storage, and bulb type**.

## Ideal growing conditions

- Light 
    - Full sun preferred
- Soil 
    - Well-drained and fertile
    - Avoid overly rich or freshly manured soil
- Water 
    - Moderate watering
    - Avoid waterlogged conditions
- Feeding 
    - Generally not required
    - Light feeding if soil is poor

## Common problems

Sets lifting out of soil

- Cause: birds or poor planting
- Fix: firm soil and replant if needed

Rotting bulbs

- Cause: waterlogged soil
- Fix: improve drainage

Small bulbs

- Cause: overcrowding or poor soil
- Fix: space correctly and improve soil

Weeds competing

- Cause: slow early growth
- Fix: keep beds weed-free

## Climate and regional notes

UK & Ireland

- March is the main planting window
- Autumn planting also possible in some areas

Europe

- Similar spring planting window
- Earlier planting possible in milder regions

USA

- Plant in early spring when soil can be worked
- Timing varies depending on climate

## Pro tips for better results

- Plant in straight rows for easier maintenance
- Avoid overwatering, especially early on
- Gently loosen soil around bulbs as they swell
- Harvest when tops begin to yellow and fall over
- Cure bulbs properly for longer storage

## FAQs: planting shallots

**When should I plant shallots**  
March is ideal for spring planting when soil is workable.

**How deep should I plant shallot sets**  
Plant so the tip is just above the soil surface.

**Do shallots need full sun**  
Yes, they grow best in full sun.

**How far apart should I plant shallots**  
Around 15–20cm apart, with rows spaced about 30cm apart.

**Can I grow shallots in containers**  
Yes, as long as containers are deep and well-draining.

**Why are my shallots small**  
Usually due to overcrowding or poor soil conditions.

**Do shallots need feeding**  
Not usually, unless soil is very poor.

**When are shallots ready to harvest**  
When the tops turn yellow and begin to fall over.

**Can I plant shallots in autumn**  
Yes, some varieties are suitable for overwintering.

**Do shallots store well**  
Yes, when properly dried and stored, they keep for several months.

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