Garlic is a versatile and easy-to-grow crop that adds rich flavor to countless dishes. Whether you have a spacious garden, a small balcony, or just a few pots on a windowsill, you can successfully grow your own garlic. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right garlic to harvesting your fresh bulbs.
1. Choose the Right Garlic and Planting Time
The first step to growing great garlic is selecting high-quality cloves. It’s best to buy "seed garlic" from a garden center or reputable online supplier—avoid using garlic from the grocery store, as it may be treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting. There are two main types of garlic: softneck (better for mild climates) and hardneck (hardier for cold climates, with edible flower stalks called scapes).
Planting time is crucial. For most regions, fall (4–6 weeks before the first frost) is ideal. This gives the cloves time to develop roots before winter and produces larger bulbs in spring. If you live in a warm climate with no frost, plant in late winter or early spring.
2. Prepare the Soil
Garlic thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Choose a spot that gets at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you’re planting in pots, use a high-quality potting mix with added compost.
To prepare the soil: Loosen it to a depth of 8–10 inches (20–25 cm) with a shovel or garden fork. Remove any rocks, weeds, or debris. Mix in 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) of well-rotted compost or aged manure to add nutrients. Avoid using fresh manure, as it can burn the roots.
3. Plant the Garlic Cloves
Separate the garlic bulb into individual cloves, keeping the papery skin intact—this protects the clove as it sprouts. Discard any small, soft, or moldy cloves.
Plant each clove pointy end up (the flat end is where the roots will grow) at a depth of 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm). Space the cloves 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) apart, with rows 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart. If planting in pots, use a container at least 8 inches (20 cm) deep and plant 3–4 cloves per pot, spaced evenly.
After planting, cover the cloves with soil and gently press down to remove air pockets. Water lightly to moisten the soil.
4. Care for Growing Garlic
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Reduce watering in late spring as the bulbs start to mature—too much water can cause rotting.
Weeding
Garlic has shallow roots, so weeds can compete for nutrients and water. Pull weeds regularly by hand to avoid damaging the garlic plants. A layer of mulch (such as straw, leaves, or grass clippings) can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing
In early spring, when new growth emerges, feed the garlic with a balanced, organic fertilizer (like 10-10-10) or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (like fish emulsion) to promote leaf growth. Avoid fertilizing after mid-spring, as this can delay bulb maturity.
Trimming Scapes (for Hardneck Garlic)
In late spring, hardneck garlic will grow curly scapes. Pinch or cut these off when they’re 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) long—this redirects energy to the bulb, making it larger. Scapes are edible and taste like mild garlic—use them in stir-fries, salads, or pesto!
5. Harvest and Cure Garlic
Garlic is ready to harvest when the lower leaves turn yellow and dry out (usually 7–8 months after fall planting, or 4–5 months after spring planting). If you wait until all the leaves are dry, the bulbs may split, so harvest when 3–4 leaves are still green.
To harvest: Gently loosen the soil around the bulb with a shovel or fork, then pull the bulb out by the stalk. Shake off excess soil—do not wash the bulbs, as moisture can cause mold during curing.
Curing is essential for storing garlic. Hang the garlic bulbs in a well-ventilated, dry, shaded area (like a garage or porch) for 2–4 weeks. Once the skins are dry and papery, trim the stalks to 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) above the bulb and remove any loose dirt or skins.
6. Storing and Using Your Garlic
Store cured garlic in a cool, dry, dark place (like a pantry or cellar) with good air circulation. Avoid storing garlic in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can cause it to sprout. Properly cured garlic can last 6–12 months.
Freshly harvested garlic (called "green garlic") has a milder flavor and can be used like scallions or leeks. Cured garlic is perfect for cooking, roasting, or making garlic oil.
Pro Tip: Save a few of your largest, healthiest bulbs to use as seed garlic for next year’s crop!
7. Final Thoughts on Growing Garlic
Growing garlic is a rewarding experience that requires minimal effort but offers abundant returns. From the satisfying sight of green shoots pushing through the soil to the joy of harvesting your own flavorful bulbs, every step is a chance to connect with nature and enhance your cooking. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to start your garlic-growing journey—happy planting!
