Can container gardening work for shallots?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Shallots can be grown in containers in preparation with care. Select containers that are at least 30 cm (12 inches) deep to allow for the expansive root system of the plant. I have grown dwarf types, such as 'Conservor', in fabric pots that are 35 cm (14 inches) deep and harvested 15-20 bulbs per pot with no work.
Soil Mix
- 1:1:1 ratio potting soil, compost, perlite
- Add 5 ml (1 tsp) bone meal per liter of mix
- Maintain pH 6.2-6.8 with dolomite lime
Watering
- Check dryness at 3 cm (1 inch) depth
- Water until 10% drains from bottom
- Avoid wetting leaves to prevent mildew
Sunlight
- Rotate pots 180° daily for even exposure
- Use reflectors to boost light by 20%
- Shade during >32°C (90°F) heatwaves
When using containers, drainage is crucial. If you are using plastic pots, you might consider drilling an additional 3-5 holes as needed to the bottom of the pot for drainage. When using ceramic planters, line the bottom with 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) or so of lava rocks before adding soil. I learned from all of my early unsuccessful attempts, that root rot can happen in as few as 10 days if the drainage is poor.
Fertilize shallots every 3 weeks with KNF 5-10-10 liquid fertilizer at half strength. Container-grown shallots will deplete nutrients quicker than the garden beds will. Each month I mix used coffee grounds into the top 5 cm (2 inches) of soil to provide slow-release nitrogen between feedings.
Read the full article: How to Grow Shallots: Essential Tips for Success
