What To Know
- Cover the planted garlic with a layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize the garlic lightly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- After harvesting, cure the garlic by hanging it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area for several weeks.
Fall is the perfect time to plant garlic, as the cooler temperatures and shorter days encourage the development of large, flavorful bulbs. By following these detailed instructions, you can ensure that your fall garlic planting is a success.
Selecting the Right Garlic
Choose garlic varieties specifically suited for fall planting in your climate zone. Hardneck varieties, such as ‘Music’ and ‘German White,’ are generally recommended for colder climates, while softneck varieties, like ‘California Early’ and ‘Silverskin,’ are better suited for warmer regions.
Preparing the Soil
Garlic prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve its structure and fertility. Avoid planting garlic in areas that have recently been fertilized with fresh manure, as this can burn the bulbs.
Breaking Up the Bulbs
Separate the garlic bulbs into individual cloves. Remove any damaged or diseased cloves. The pointed end of the clove should be facing upwards when planted.
Planting the Cloves
Plant the garlic cloves 6-8 inches apart, with the pointed end up and the root end down. Space the rows 12-18 inches apart. Plant the cloves about 1 inch deep in the soil.
Mulching and Watering
Cover the planted garlic with a layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water the garlic deeply after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during dry periods.
Fertilizing
Fertilize the garlic lightly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and smaller bulbs.
Harvesting
Garlic is typically ready to harvest in mid to late summer. When the tops of the plants start to turn brown and the bulbs are firm, it’s time to harvest. Carefully dig up the bulbs and remove any loose soil.
Curing
After harvesting, cure the garlic by hanging it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area for several weeks. This will help the bulbs dry out and harden, extending their shelf life.
Storing
Store the cured garlic in a cool, dry place. Properly stored garlic can last for several months.
Troubleshooting
- Garlic Rust: A fungal disease that causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide or remove affected plants.
- Garlic Bloat Nematode: A microscopic worm that infects the bulbs, causing them to swell and become deformed. Use resistant varieties or avoid planting garlic in infested soil.
- Purple Blotch: A fungal disease that causes purple or brown spots on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide or remove affected plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to plant fall garlic?
A: Plant fall garlic in late September or early October, when the soil temperature is between 55-60°F.
Q: How deep should I plant garlic cloves?
A: Plant garlic cloves about 1 inch deep in the soil.
Q: How often should I water garlic plants?
A: Water garlic plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Q: Should I fertilize garlic plants?
A: Yes, fertilize garlic plants lightly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Q: How long does it take to grow garlic?
A: Garlic typically takes 5-7 months to grow from planting to harvest.
