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Shallot 'French Gourmet' (10 bulbs)
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Bulb
Amaryllidaceae
Van Noort
Allium cepa Aggregatum Group
Common nameShallot 'French Gourmet'
FamilyAmaryllidaceae
GenusGarlic
Bulb typeBulb
Botanical nameGarlic
Quantity per pack10 bulbs
‘French Gourmet’ Shallot (Allium cepa Aggregatum Group). The ‘French Gourmet’ shallot includes ten No. 1 bulbs selected to produce elongated bulbs with a fine, mild, and slightly sweet flavor. This cultivated form of Allium cepa Aggregatum Group develops upright green leaves and clumps about 45 cm (18 in.) tall with a 10 cm (4 in.) spread. Each planted bulb can form a small cluster of new shallots during the season. Its delicate texture is suitable for vinaigrettes, sauces, roasts, and slow-cooked dishes. The Van Noort package provides a convenient quantity for establishing a compact row, an intensive kitchen garden square, or several sunny containers, while maintaining even spacing.
Place each bulb point-side up about 2.5 cm (0.98 in.) deep, leaving the neck near the surface, then space the plants 5 cm (2 in.) apart. Choose full sun and loose, fertile soil enriched with mature compost that is perfectly drained. Water after planting, then maintain consistent moisture during rooting and bulb development without saturating the soil. Weed carefully, as shallow roots compete poorly with weeds. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, which prolong foliage at the expense of maturation, and gradually stop watering when the leaves begin to yellow.
Harvest at the end of summer when the majority of the foliage falls over and turns yellow. Lift the clumps in dry weather, gently shake off the soil, and let the bulbs dry in a sheltered, warm, and well-ventilated area. Once the papery skins and necks are dry, trim the leaves, sort the healthy bulbs, and store them in a cool, dry, and dark place. In the garden, pair ‘French Gourmet’ with carrots, lettuce, or beets while respecting crop rotation; avoid replanting alliums in the same spot for several years in a row to limit soil-borne diseases.
In the garden
- Exposure
- Sun
- Life cycle
- Biennial, grown as an annual
- Hardiness
- Zone 4
Planting guide
Planting & establishment
Planting depth
2 to 3 cm (1 in)
Planting period
Spring as soon as the ground is dry enough to be worked
Propagation
Natural division of bulbs into clumps
Growing method
Prepare a row in full sun in loose, fertile, and well-drained soil. Incorporate mature compost without adding fresh manure. Sort the ten bulbs and discard any that are soft or damaged. Place each bulb point up, 2.5 cm (0.98 in) deep, with the neck near the surface, and 5 cm (2 in) between plants. Water to settle the soil, then maintain consistent moisture during rooting. Weed by hand or with a shallow tool to protect the roots. Fertilize moderately at the start, avoiding excess nitrogen. As the bulbs grow, keep the soil moist but never saturated. Reduce watering when the leaves yellow and droop. Lift the clumps in dry weather, dry them in a well-ventilated shelter, then store only healthy bulbs with completely dry necks and skins. Monitor for thrips, discolored leaves, and any abnormal odor. Keep the necks clear as the clumps grow and never water in small daily amounts. Deep, infrequent irrigation encourages more consistent rooting. Note the planting date and plot to plan rotation. Observe the vigor of the row weekly.
Soil and care
Soil & care
Soil pH
Neutral to slightly alkaline
Minimum temperature
-34°C (-30°F)
Care level
Easy
Watering
Water moderately to keep the soil slightly moist without overwatering. Reduce watering as harvest approaches to promote bulb preservation. Water after planting, then maintain regular moisture during rooting and enlargement without saturating the soil. Avoid excessive nitrogen inputs, which promote foliage growth at the expense of maturation, and gradually stop watering when the leaves begin to yellow. Lift the clumps in dry weather, gently shake off the soil, and allow the bulbs to dry in a sheltered, warm, and well-ventilated place.
Soil type
Prioritize loose, well-drained soil where water does not linger around roots or bulbs. Check drainage after rain: water should be able to exit the root zone. Work the soil when it is dry to prevent compaction. Adapt amendments to its actual texture. For container plants, use appropriate potting soil and a pot with drainage holes. Keep these openings clear and prevent any water accumulation in the saucer.
Fertilization
Incorporate mature compost before planting and, if necessary, use a balanced fertilizer sparingly at the start. Avoid fresh manure and excessive nitrogen, which produce abundant foliage, delay ripening, and reduce storage life. Stop fertilizing when the bulbs begin to mature. A soil test helps avoid unnecessary applications. In new potting soil or already fertile soil, reduce the dose and observe the color of the leaves.
Seasonal care
In spring, prepare the bed, plant healthy bulbs, and water to encourage rooting. Watch out for late frosts, birds that sometimes move the bulbs, and the appearance of weeds. During growth, hoe very shallowly, maintain regular moisture, and check the leaves for thrips or fungal symptoms. Promptly remove any soft, prematurely yellowed, or foul-smelling plants. Do not add soil over the bulbs as they grow near the surface. In late summer, reduce watering as soon as the foliage bends over and yellows. Harvest in dry weather, cure the clumps under ventilated cover, then cut the leaves when the necks are dry. Sort the harvest and use damaged bulbs first. Clean tools, remove debris, and for the following year, choose a plot that has not recently grown garlic, onion, leek, or shallot. During warm periods, check for moisture below the surface rather than watering automatically. Support bent leaves only if they have been prematurely knocked over by the wind; the natural bending over at the end of the season should remain a sign of maturity. Do not tie up the leaves or cut them while green. Before harvesting, prepare clean crates and a drying area protected from rain. Label the variety and date. During drying, gently turn the clumps, monitor for soft spots, and maintain continuous air circulation. After sorting, note the yield and observed problems to improve plot selection, watering, and fertilization the following year.
Container growing
Container growing
Recommended pot size
Container at least 30 cm (12 in.) deep
Container gardening requires you to plan for the necessary volume for the roots and the plant's final height. Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a substrate suitable for planting. Leave enough space to respect the recommended depth and spacing, rather than crowding plants to immediately fill the pot. Place the container in the indicated exposure and regularly check the moisture, especially in hot or windy weather. A pot is more exposed to temperature variations than in-ground planting. Therefore, plan from the start for a wintering location compatible with the needs of this plant and the climate of your region. Place each bulb point-up at a depth of about 2.5 cm (0.98 in), leaving the collar close to the surface, then space the plants 5 cm (2 in) apart. Choose full sun and loose, fertile soil, enriched with mature compost, but perfectly drained. Water after planting, then maintain regular moisture during rooting and growth without saturating the soil. Weed carefully, as shallow roots compete poorly with weeds. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, which prolong foliage at the expense of ripening, and gradually stop watering when the leaves begin to yellow.
Size, flowering & harvest
Mature height
30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in.)
Width / spread
6 in (15 cm)
Flower color
Greenish-white when present
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Growth rate
Moderate
Edible parts
Bulbs and young leaves harvested; exclude bulbs sold for planting
Bloom period
Flowering is rarely sought after as cultivation aims for bulb production. Weather and the development stage at planting time can influence the appearance of flowers. Observe the opening of the buds to enjoy the flowering at its best. After the flowers, keep the foliage green to allow the plant to complete its cycle. Only remove withered or completely dry parts.
Harvest
August to September. Harvest when the foliage has fallen then dry the bulbs before storing them.
Garden associations
Companion plants & uses
Companion plants
Install neighboring crops at a sufficient distance so as not to hinder maintenance or block the light necessary for this planting. Compare their height at maturity and their water needs before sharing the same space. Keep paths clear for watering and harvesting without damaging the leaves. Companion planting in the garden should primarily facilitate care and efficient use of space; it does not guarantee protection against diseases or pests. Clearly separate different varieties with labels to identify each one at harvest time and track your results over the seasons.
Garden use
‘French Gourmet’ Shallot (Allium cepa Aggregatum Group). The ‘French Gourmet’ shallot comprises ten selected No. 1 bulbs, chosen for producing elongated bulbs with a fine, mild, and slightly sweet flavor. This cultivated form of Allium cepa Aggregatum Group develops erect green leaves and clumps about 45 cm (18 in) tall and 10 cm (4 in) wide. Each planted bulb can form a small cluster of new shallots during the growing season. Its delicate texture is suitable for dressings, sauces, roasts, and slow cooking. The Van Noort pack provides a convenient quantity for establishing a compact row, an intensive raised bed, or several sunny containers, while maintaining regular spacing. Plant in spring when the soil has drained and is workable. Allocate an accessible location for this crop, where you can tend the soil and harvest without stepping on the plants. A legible label helps distinguish varieties, especially when multiple rows look similar. Also, allow enough space for cultivation tasks and to move around with a watering can or your tools. Before planting, consider the shade cast by taller vegetables and anticipate their mature size. A simple layout makes it easier to monitor each variety throughout the season. Note your harvest results to adjust location, watering, or planted quantity according to your family's needs.
Recipe idea
From garden to table
Melted Onions in a Pan. Use healthy, well-cleaned onions from your harvest. Remove the dry skin and damaged parts, then slice the bulbs into pieces of similar thickness. Heat a little oil or butter in a wide pan and add the onions with a pinch of salt. Cook gently, stirring regularly, without trying to brown them too quickly. If they start to stick, add a small amount of water and gently scrape the bottom with a spoon. Continue until the slices are tender and lightly golden. Season with pepper to your taste and add thyme at the end of cooking, if desired. Serve these onions with vegetables, in a savory tart, or as a hot sandwich filling. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the slices and the quantity in the pan. Prepare this recipe with bulbs harvested from the garden after cultivation, not with sets intended for planting.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
How to plant the ten 'French Gourmet' bulbs?
Plant in spring as soon as the soil is dry enough to work. Sort the bulbs and keep only those that are firm. Place them point-up about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep, with the neck near the surface, then leave 2 inches (5 cm) between plants. Choose full sun and loose soil enriched with mature compost. Water to settle the soil around the bases without creating mud. If birds disturb the bulbs, quickly put them back in place or use temporary light protection. Mark the row so you can weed very shallowly without damaging the roots during establishment. Water again if the soil becomes dry before shoots appear.
When and how to harvest shallots?
Harvest in late summer when most of the leaves naturally droop and turn yellow. Choose a dry period and reduce watering several days beforehand. Lift each clump with a fork placed far enough away to avoid piercing the bulbs. Gently shake off the soil without removing the protective skins. Spread the shallots in a single layer under a warm, well-ventilated shelter, away from rain and scorching sun. Turn them over as needed. When the necks and skins are perfectly dry, cut off the leaves, discard soft or diseased bulbs, and store only healthy specimens. Immediately label each harvested batch.
How do I store the harvest without it rotting?
Storage begins before you even put them away. Harvest in dry weather, avoid bruising, and cure the bulbs until their necks are closed and their skins are truly papery. Sort your harvest carefully; cook any cut, soft, or blemished shallots quickly. Place the others in mesh bags, slatted baskets, or shallow crates—never in a sealed plastic bag. Choose a cool, dry, dark, well-ventilated, and frost-free location. Inspect regularly and remove any bulbs that become soft or sprout. Do not wash shallots before storing them, as trapped moisture promotes rot and significantly shortens their shelf life.
Can this shallot be grown in a pot?
Yes. Use a container at least 12 inches (30 cm) deep, with plenty of holes and wide enough to allow 2 inches (5 cm) between bulbs. Fill it with fertile but well-draining garden soil, then plant the bulbs with the tips pointing upwards at 1 inch (2.5 cm). Place the pot in full sun and water when the surface is dry, always without leaving water in the saucer. Fertilize lightly at first, as too much nitrogen promotes leaves at the expense of bulbs. Reduce watering when the foliage yellows, harvest in dry weather, and cure the shallots outside the pot. Then either renew the soil mix or grow another family of vegetables.
Why practice crop rotation with alliums?
Shallots, onions, garlic, leeks, and chives can share certain pests and soil-borne diseases. Continuously growing them in the same spot increases the pressure from persistent agents and complicates their management. After harvesting 'French Gourmet', remove debris, clean tools, and plant a crop from a different family for several seasons before returning alliums to that spot. For example, choose unrelated legumes, lettuces, or root vegetables, according to your garden plan. Crop rotation does not replace good drainage or the removal of diseased bulbs, but it complements these practices and helps maintain productive soil and a healthier harvest.
Wildlife and pets
Wildlife & precautions
Reported toxicity
Yes
Supporting wildlife
Umbels left to flower can feed bees, hoverflies, and other small pollinators. For a bulb harvest, however, remove the flower stalks to conserve energy in the clump. Avoid insecticides throughout the flowering period and protect newly planted bulbs from curious birds. This flowering is secondary.
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