Tips for Growing Garlic

Growing garlic can be an easy and rewarding gardening experience. Not only is it relatively low maintenance, but the rewards of a successful harvest are well worth it! If you’re interested in growing your own garlic, here are some tips to help ensure success: 

1. Choose a variety of garlic that grows best in your region – there are hardneck and softneck varieties of garlic, so research what type works best for your climate and soil conditions. 

2. Prepare your soil before planting – make sure you have good drainage and have amended the soil with compost to provide nutrients for your crop. Garlic also requires lots of sunlight, so be sure to plant them in a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. 

3. Plant cloves at the right time – the optimal time for planting is late fall/early winter, so make sure you’re prepared with enough space, supplies and garlic cloves when it’s time to plant. Planting too early or late could affect how much of a harvest you will receive. 

4. Provide adequate water – especially during summer months when temperatures tend to rise quickly, your garlic needs regular watering (1-2 inches per week) to prevent the bulbs from drying out and dying off prematurely. Keep in mind that excess water can cause mold or rot issues as well. 

5. Protect plants from pests & disease – common garden pests like deer or voles may feed on young plants or try to burrow underground, so make sure they are not allowed access to your garden by erecting fencing or other physical barriers if necessary. You should also take steps to protect plants from fungal diseases by providing plenty of airflow around plants (such as staking them upright), avoiding overhead watering if possible, and regularly inspecting for any signs of trouble such as wilting leaves or discolored bulbs. 

By following these tips for growing garlic, you should have a healthy crop ready for harvesting come late spring/early summer! Enjoy the sweet reward of homegrown garlic!