What To Know
- In cold climates, plant cloves in the fall (October-November) for a spring harvest.
- Garlic is ready to harvest when the tops start to turn brown and the bulbs begin to swell.
- Hang the garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place for 2-4 weeks to cure.
Garlic, a versatile and aromatic bulb, is a staple in kitchens worldwide. Growing your own garlic is a rewarding experience that can save you money and add fresh flavors to your culinary creations. This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to plant garlic from garlic, ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Choosing the Right Garlic
The first step in planting garlic is selecting the right variety. Hardneck garlic, with its stiff central stalk and large cloves, is best suited for cold climates. Softneck garlic, known for its smaller cloves and more flexible stalk, is ideal for warmer regions.
Preparing the Soil
Garlic thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve fertility and drainage. Avoid planting garlic in areas where water tends to pool.
When to Plant Garlic
The ideal time to plant garlic varies depending on your climate. In cold climates, plant cloves in the fall (October-November) for a spring harvest. In warmer climates, plant cloves in the spring (February-March) for a summer harvest.
Planting Garlic Cloves
1. Break Apart the Bulb: Gently separate the garlic bulb into individual cloves, leaving the papery husks intact.
2. Choose the Best Cloves: Select plump, firm cloves without any signs of bruising or damage.
3. Pointy Side Up: Plant the cloves pointy side up, about 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart.
4. Cover with Soil: Firmly press down on the soil around the cloves to ensure good contact.
5. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or compost, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Growing Garlic
1. Water: Garlic requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.
2. Fertilize: Fertilize garlic once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced bulb size.
3. Weed Control: Keep the garlic bed weed-free by hand-pulling or using a hoe. Mulch can also help suppress weeds.
4. Pest Control: Garlic is relatively pest-resistant, but watch out for aphids and thrips. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Harvesting Garlic
1. When to Harvest: Garlic is ready to harvest when the tops start to turn brown and the bulbs begin to swell.
2. Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork to gently loosen the soil around the bulbs.
3. Pull the Bulbs: Carefully lift the bulbs out of the ground by their stalks.
4. Cure the Garlic: Hang the garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place for 2-4 weeks to cure. This process helps the bulbs develop their full flavor and harden their outer skin.
Storing Garlic
Store cured garlic in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area. Place the bulbs in a mesh bag or basket to allow for air circulation. Properly stored garlic can last for several months.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I plant garlic from store-bought garlic?
A: Yes, you can plant garlic from store-bought garlic, but it may not produce as well as certified seed garlic.
Q: How long does it take to grow garlic?
A: Garlic typically takes 90-120 days to mature.
Q: Why are my garlic bulbs small?
A: Small garlic bulbs can be caused by planting too deeply, over-fertilizing, or inadequate sunlight.
Q: How do I handle garlic scapes?
A: Garlic scapes are the curly stalks that emerge from the garlic plant. They can be harvested and used in salads, stir-fries, or pesto.
Q: Can I grow garlic in containers?
A: Yes, garlic can be grown in containers as long as they have adequate drainage and sunlight.
