I am very impressed by the size of these shallots. In my experience the size is determined mostly by variety. Optimal growing conditions help, too.

Interesting. One is always lucky to pick up an allium that has been locally propagated for a while. If the lady suggested letting one go to seed, I suppose she was saying that she propagates them this way? From the looks of the wrappers, a couple of them seem to have swelling buds and should grow if you plant them when spring finally comes.

It will be interesting to see how they do for me, she said she used lots of manure. In the past I've only used good compost, fish fertilizer and liquid seaweed.

Annette

I think some of the smaller grey shallots are typically propagated from starts, while some of the larger cultivars can be started from seed.

Good luck with the Shallots! I've only done Onions and Garlic. I've had some big heads of Garlic and Onions. :)