When to plant
Plant garlic cloves in autumn (the best time) for the largest bulbs, or in early spring in colder climates. Autumn planting allows cloves to develop roots before winter and produce stronger growth in spring.
Where to plant
Choose a sunny, open spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Garlic grows well in vegetable gardens, raised beds and large containers. Avoid shaded or wet areas — bulbs rot easily in waterlogged soil.
Preparing the soil
Loosen the soil to 20–25 cm and enrich it with compost or well-rotted manure. Garlic prefers fertile, crumbly, well-drained soil with good aeration. Heavy clay should be improved with grit or sand; sandy soil benefits from added organic matter.
Preparing the cloves
Separate the garlic bulb into individual cloves just before planting. Do not remove the papery skin. Choose only large, healthy cloves — small ones produce weak bulbs. Avoid supermarket garlic, as it is often treated to prevent sprouting.
Planting the cloves
Plant each clove 5–7 cm deep with the pointed tip facing upward. Space cloves 12–15 cm apart in rows spaced 25–30 cm apart. Firm the soil gently and water lightly.
After planting
Autumn-planted garlic will send out roots before winter. Mulch with straw or compost to protect young shoots and suppress weeds. Keep soil lightly moist but never soggy.
During growth
Water regularly during dry periods, especially in late spring as bulbs swell. Stop watering 2–3 weeks before harvest. Remove flowering scapes from hardneck types to encourage larger bulbs. Keep the bed weed-free — garlic hates competition.
After flowering / Harvesting
Harvest when around half the leaves have turned yellow, usually in early to mid-summer. Lift bulbs carefully with a fork and cure them in a dry, airy place for 2–4 weeks. Once cured, trim roots and leaves and store bulbs in a cool, dry place.
Extra tips
Garlic is an excellent companion plant for carrots, strawberries and roses, helping to deter pests. Rotate garlic beds yearly to prevent disease. Avoid planting garlic in the same soil as onions from the previous year.
