Shallot - (Banana) Simiane *

Direct sow shallots outdoors from late March to April on any firm, well drained soil in full sun. Sow thinly at a depth of 1cm (½") and a distance of 30cm (12") between rows. Prepare the planting area several weeks in advance by incorporating some well rotted garden compost to improve drainage and soil fertility. Avoid planting shallots on freshly manured soil. On particularly wet ground, try growing shallots in raised beds. When large enough to handle, thin shallot seedlings to 4cm (1 ½"). Cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects.

Shallots are undemanding and require only occasional watering during particularly dry periods. However, rows should be weeded regularly. Harvest shallots in late July and August, a week or two after the leaves begin to turn yellow. Choose a dry day to loosen them from the ground with a fork. Leave them on the soil surface for a day or two until they have fully dried in the sun. Once dry, remove the top foliage and store them in a well ventilated, dry position. Bulbs can be stored for several months.