Shallot 'Zebrune' Seeds - Sweet and Mild French Echalion for Gourmet Cooking

Here’s a comprehensive growing guide for Shallot 'Zebrune' Seeds to help ensure a successful harvest:

Key Attributes:

• Product Name: Shallot 'Zebrune' Seeds
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated
• Available Quantities: 100, 500, or 1000 seeds per pack
• Mature Height: 12-18 inches
• Hardiness: Cool-season crop, frost-tolerant
• Light Requirements: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily)
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0
• Uses: Ideal for gourmet cooking, fresh salads, roasting, soups, and caramelized dishes

Product Details:

• Germination Rate: High for reliable growth
• Seed Freshness: Newly harvested for optimal germination
• Origin: Sustainably sourced
• Shelf Life: Best planted within one year for maximum viability

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• No special preparation required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours to speed up germination.

Sowing Guidelines:

Indoor Sowing (Recommended for Early Start):

• Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost.
• Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in seed trays or containers with well-draining soil.
• Maintain soil temperature at 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal germination.

Outdoor Sowing:

• Direct sow after the last frost when soil temperature is at least 50°F (10°C).
• Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in rows, spacing them 6 inches apart.

Germination:

• Typically occurs within 7-14 days under optimal conditions.
• Keep soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.

Transplanting & Spacing:

• Move seedlings outdoors when they are 6-8 inches tall.
• Within Rows: 6 inches apart
• Between Rows: 12 inches apart
• Hilling: As plants grow, mound soil slightly around the base for better bulb development.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks for steady growth.
• Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pest & Disease Control: Monitor for thrips, onion flies, and fungal diseases. Rotate crops annually to prevent soil-borne issues.

Harvesting & Storage:

• Shallots are ready for harvest in 100-120 days when the tops begin to yellow and fall over.
• Lift bulbs carefully and cure in a dry, shaded area for 2-3 weeks before storage.
• Store in a cool, dry place for several months.