[missmoneypenny]

I’ve never done shallots before and am going to try autumn planting this year. I see T&M have Germoor and Griselle. Any recommendations? Tips for successful planting gratefully received too.

[Thrutchington]

If you are looking for an autumn planting type, I have found longor very good. These are a larger banana type shallot. My experience with griselle has been that the skins are tough, making them very fiddly to peel. In the spring I also sow a couple of rows of zebrunne shallots from seed (another large banana type) or something like red sun sets (smaller round type).

Soil I add plenty of organic matter and pelleted chicken manure to in advance and use an onion, garlic and shallot fertiliser during the growing months. Best covering sets when first planted to deter birds who can pull them out of the ground.

[AnneB]

Another vote for Longor.  I have tried several varieties but these always do the best for me.
They keep for a very long time as well. I have had them store for 18 months in the past.

[missmoneypenny]

Thanks guys, I had to get the order in quick to benefit from the free postage, I ordered Griselle in the event. Thanks for the growing tips, I will definitely cover the sets.