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Garlic – Growing Guide

Overview

Description

Garlic is a hardy perennial plant, typically grown as an annual for its pungent bulbs, which are composed of multiple cloves encased in a papery sheath. The plant has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches), depending on the variety and growing conditions. Its long, flat, grass-like leaves are green and grow directly from the base of the plant, forming a fan-like arrangement. Each leaf is narrow and can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length.

Garlic also produces a flower stalk known as a scape, which emerges from the center of the plant in hardneck varieties. The scape is smooth, round, and typically curls as it grows, eventually producing an umbel of small, white to pinkish-purple flowers. These flowers are often sterile, particularly in cultivated garlic, and are sometimes replaced by small bulbils. The scape is usually removed by gardeners to redirect the plant’s energy towards bulb development, resulting in larger and more well-developed cloves.

The garlic bulb is formed underground, and is the most valuable part of the plant. It consists of multiple cloves, each of which is a small, swollen storage organ surrounded by a protective, papery layer. Garlic is propagated by separating the individual cloves and planting them out, which then develop into whole new bulbs over the growing season.

Garlic follows a typical lifecycle that begins with planting individual cloves in the autumn. Over the winter, the garlic establishes roots, and as spring arrives, it resumes growth producing leaves, eventually maturing into a fully-formed bulb by mid-summer, ready for harvest.

Garlic is highly valued both for its intense flavor and its health benefits, being rich in sulfur compounds that contribute to its characteristic aroma and therapeutic properties. It is a staple in many cuisines around the world and is used both raw and cooked to enhance the flavor of a wide variety of dishes.

Interesting Facts

  1. Garlic has been used both culinarily and medicinally for over 5,000 years, with records of its use dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and China. Its versatility in the kitchen and reputed health benefits have made it a staple in cuisines worldwide.
  2. Known for its potential health benefits, garlic is believed to support cardiovascular health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also has antimicrobial properties and is thought to boost the immune system, making it a popular natural remedy for colds and infections.
  3. Garlic also serves as an effective natural pest repellent in gardens. Planting garlic near other crops can help deter pests such as aphids, beetles, and even rabbits, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
  4. Garlic is remarkably self-sustaining; the bulb can be divided into individual cloves, each of which can be replanted to produce a new garlic plant. This makes garlic an excellent choice for home gardeners looking to cultivate their own continuous supply.
  5. In ancient Egypt, garlic held significant cultural and economic value. It was so highly prized that cloves were placed in the tombs of Pharaohs to accompany them into the afterlife. Additionally, garlic was given to the builders of the Great Pyramid of Giza as a form of payment and sustenance, underscoring its importance in ancient society.
  6. Garlic comes in two main types: hardneck and softneck. Hardneck garlic tends to have a stronger flavor and produces scapes, which are edible flowering stalks, while softneck garlic is more commonly found in supermarkets due to its longer shelf life and adaptability to various climates.

Hardneck vs. Softneck Garlic: Key Differences and Growing Tips

Garlic (Allium sativum) is broadly categorized into two main types: hardneck (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon) and softneck (Allium sativum var. sativum). These two types differ not only in their physical characteristics and culinary uses but also in how they are grown, harvested, and stored.

1. Hardneck Garlic

Hardneck garlic is favored by many gardeners for its stronger, more complex, preferred flavor, and ease of peeling, though it is less commonly grown commercially due to its shorter shelf life.

Botanical Characteristics:

Growing and Harvesting:

Storage:

2. Softneck Garlic

Softneck garlic is the more commonly grown variety, especially in commercial production, due to its longer shelf life and adaptability to a wide range of climates. It has a milder flavor, and is the type that is commonly sold in supermarkets.

Botanical Characteristics:

Growing and Harvesting:

Storage:

Summary of Differences Between Hardneck and Softneck Garlic:

This summary provides a quick reference making it easier to understand the practical implications of choosing between hardneck and softneck garlic.

FeatureHardneck GarlicSoftneck Garlic
Scape FormationProduces a central flowering stalk (scape)Typically does not produce a scape
Clove ArrangementFewer, larger cloves in a single ringMore numerous, smaller cloves in layers
Cold HardinessMore cold-hardy, suited for cold climatesLess cold-hardy, better for warmer climates
Storage LifeShorter shelf life (4-6 months)Longer shelf life (6-12 months)
Flavor ProfileStronger, more complex flavorMilder flavor, common in supermarkets

Garlic Type: Practical Implications for Growing and Harvesting

Understanding these differences can help you select the right garlic variety for your garden, ensuring a successful harvest that meets your culinary and storage needs.

Now that we have covered the two main types of garlic, it is worth quickly mentioning some other ‘garlic’ plants that often confuse gardeners, for the reasons explained below.

What is Elephant Garlic?

Elephant garlic (Allium ampeloprasum) is actually a type of leek, not true garlic, though it resembles garlic in appearance. It is native to regions around the Mediterranean, particularly southern Europe. It produces very large bulbs, typically containing 5-6 large cloves, although some bulbs may have only three or four. In addition to the main cloves, small bulblets can also develop around the outside of the bulb. These massive bulbs can sometimes weigh up to 450 grams (1 pound).

The plant also produces a large seed stalk, which can be cut and used ornamentally as a cut flower. The lower, fleshy part of the seed stalk is tender and valued as a stir-fried vegetable. The flavor of elephant garlic is much milder than that of true garlic, though it can develop a sharp or bitter taste in colder climates. Elephant garlic grows under the same conditions as regular garlic.

What is Society Garlic?

Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) is a perennial plant that is often mistaken for true garlic due to its name and mild garlic flavor, though it is not a true garlic. Native to South Africa, society garlic features slender, grass-like leaves and produces clusters of small, star-shaped lavender or light purple flowers on tall stalks. The plant grows to a height of 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) and is commonly used both as an ornamental border plant and a culinary herb.

Unlike true garlic, society garlic does not form bulbs. Instead, it spreads via rhizomes (underground stems that grow horizontally and produce roots and shoots at nodes) and forms dense clumps of foliage. The leaves and flowers emit a garlic-like fragrance when crushed, making it an effective natural pest deterrent in gardens. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, with a mild garlic flavor that can be used in salads, soups, and as garnishes. Although the flavor is milder than that of true garlic, society garlic adds a subtle garlic note to dishes without overwhelming other flavors.

Basic Growing Information

Garlic is a cool-season crop that thrives in temperatures ranging from 13–24°C (55–75°F), with the optimal growing temperature for bulb development being around 15–20°C (59–68°F). Proper bulbing (formation and development of garlic bulbs) requires exposure to cold temperatures (0–10°C or 32–50°F) for 1-2 months, and longer daylight hours (>12 hours) in late spring stimulate clove formation.

It is typically planted in the autumn, allowing the cloves to establish roots before the ground freezes, and then resumes growth in the spring as temperatures rise. However, in regions with mild winter weather, garlic can also be planted in early winter, as the cooler temperatures still provide the necessary chilling period for proper bulb development if planted early enough.

Photoperiodism and Bulb Formation: Garlic is sensitive to photoperiodism, meaning that its bulb formation is influenced by the length of daylight hours. As day length increases in late spring and early summer, garlic shifts from vegetative (leaf) growth to bulb development. This sensitivity to day length makes it crucial to plant garlic at the right time for your geographic location. In regions with longer days in the summer, garlic planted too late might not experience sufficient cold exposure (vernalization) or the appropriate day length to trigger proper bulb formation, leading to smaller bulbs or poor yields.

Garlic requires well-drained, fertile soil and prefers full sun exposure, as sufficient sunlight is critical for the development of large, healthy bulbs. Consistent moisture is important during the growing season, especially during the early stages of growth, but overwatering or waterlogged soil should be avoided as it can lead to bulb rot.

In colder climates, a layer of mulch can help protect the plants over winter, and removing the mulch in spring will allow the soil to warm up faster, promoting early growth.

Garlic requires little maintenance beyond regular watering and weeding. In hardneck varieties, it is advisable to remove the flower stalk (scape) as it appears to direct more energy towards bulb growth, resulting in larger cloves.

Why Is My Garlic Producing Small Bulbs? Common Causes and Solutions

If your garlic is producing small bulbs or no bulbs at all, there are several common factors that could be responsible:

  1. Planting Time: Garlic should ideally be planted in the autumn in cold locations to allow the cloves to establish strong roots before the ground freezes. Planting too late or too early can lead to poor root development, which is crucial for bulb formation. When planted too late, garlic might not have enough time to develop before the growing season ends, leading to smaller bulbs or no bulb formation.
  2. Cold Exposure (Vernalization): Garlic requires a period of cold exposure to trigger proper bulb development. This process, known as vernalization, is essential for garlic to transition from vegetative (leafy) growth to bulb formation. If garlic is grown in areas with mild winters or if it doesn’t receive enough cold, the plants may develop only small or no bulbs. This is particularly true for hardneck varieties, which are more dependent on cold exposure.
  3. Nutrient Deficiency: Phosphorus is a key nutrient for root and bulb development in garlic. If soil lacks phosphorus or other essential nutrients like nitrogen or potassium, garlic may struggle to grow large, healthy bulbs. Conducting a soil test can help identify any deficiencies if you are running a commercial operation, but that is not practical for the home gardener. If phosphorus levels are low, consider adding a phosphorus-rich fertilizer such as blood & bone, bone meal or rock phosphate to the soil. For nitrogen deficiency, blood & bone or composted manure can be used to boost levels. If potassium is lacking, sulfate of potash or wood ash (used in very small quantities) can be incorporated (dug) into the soil. Application of fertilizer can help address these deficiencies and improve bulb size.
  4. Soil Conditions: Garlic requires well-drained, fertile soil to thrive. Soil that is too compacted or poorly drained can inhibit root expansion and bulb growth. Adding organic matter, such as compost, before planting can improve soil structure, but ensure that the soil is not too dense or waterlogged, as this can also lead to small or poorly formed bulbs.
  5. Watering Practices: Both overwatering and underwatering can affect garlic bulb size. Garlic needs consistent moisture, especially during the early stages of growth, but excessive water can cause bulb rot, while too little water can prevent the bulbs from fully developing.

Addressing these factors can significantly improve garlic bulb size and yield, ensuring a more successful harvest.

Planting

Garlic is typically grown from cloves, which are separated from the garlic bulb and are planted about 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) deep, with the pointed end facing up. Cloves should be spaced 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart in rows that are about 30 cm (12 inches) apart to allow sufficient space for bulb development.

When selecting garlic for planting, it’s important to use seed garlic that is certified disease-free rather than store-bought garlic, which might not be suited for planting. Certified seed garlic is specifically produced for planting and is less likely to carry diseases that could affect your crop. Store-bought garlic, on the other hand, is often treated in various ways to prevent sprouting and may carry diseases like white rot, which can persist in the soil for years. Garlic purchased from organic suppliers is not treated and will sprout normally.

Note: Check gardening calendars for the best planting times in your location

Preparing and Fertilizing Soil for High-Yield Garlic Crops

To achieve a high-yield garlic crop, it’s essential to carefully prepare and fertilize the soil at each stage of the growing process. Proper soil preparation begins before planting and continues through the growing season, with timely fertilizer applications that support the plant’s development while ensuring that the focus remains on producing large, high-quality bulbs.

Follow these steps to create the optimal soil conditions for your garlic plants.

Step 1 – Dig in compost before planting: In the autumn, before planting garlic, prepare the soil by incorporating (digging in) lots of well-rotted compost to improve its structure, making it loose, friable, and well-draining—conditions that garlic prefers. Incidentally, the term ‘friable’ refers to soil that crumbles easily, making it easy for plant roots to grow through.

Step 2 – Improve soil fertility before planting: Also dig in manure or balanced fertilizer to increase soil fertility and support plant growth.

Step 3 – Apply fertilizer in early spring: As the planted garlic begins to emerge and grow in early spring, apply more fertilizer to support leaf and root development. This will promote strong leaf growth, which is vital for the plant’s ability to produce large bulbs.

Step 4 – Second fertilizer application: In approximately three to four weeks, apply a second dose of fertilizer to continue supporting healthy growth and sustain the plant as it prepares for bulb formation.

Step 5 – Reduce or stop fertilizer in late spring: By late spring, as the garlic begins its bulbing (bulb formation) process, its important to reduce the amount of additional fertilizer applied, or even better tor stop applying fertilizer. This allows the plant to redirect its energy from leaf production to bulb formation, which is important to develop well-formed, mature bulbs. Over-fertilizing with high nitrogen fertilizer at this stage can promote leaf growth at the expense of bulb development, delay bulb maturation and reduce bulb quality

Keep the garlic well watered to maintain optimal soil moisture and remove weeds throughout the growing season to avoid competition for water and nutrient. It’s also helpful to apply straw type mulches (such as pea straw, lucerne, sugar cane mulch) to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

    Care and Maintenance

    Growing Difficulty

    Growing Tips

    Companion Plants

    Common Pests and Diseases

    Harvesting

    Harvest Time: Garlic is ready to harvest when the lower leaves of the plant begin to turn brown, while the upper leaves remain green, typically five or six leaves. This indicates that the bulbs have reached their full size and are ready for curing.

    Another method is to carefully dig up one or two bulbs when you notice the leaf changes and inspect them. The bulbs should be fully formed, with tight, papery skins around the cloves, which indicate they are ready for harvest. If the bulbs are not fully developed, the skins may be loose or thin, the cloves small or not well-defined, or the bulb feels soft rather than firm. Additionally, the overall size of the bulb might be smaller than expected. In such cases, it’s best to leave the remaining garlic in the ground for a bit longer to allow the bulbs to mature fully​.

    The timing of the garlic harvest can vary depending on the climate and garlic variety, but it typically occurs in early to mid-summer in temperate regions.

    Harvesting Tips: To harvest garlic, carefully loosen the soil around the bulbs using a garden fork or spade, taking care not to damage them, as any injuries can increase the risk of disease and deterioration during storage. Once the soil is loosened, gently lift the bulbs from the ground, keeping the roots and leaves intact, don’t cut them off yet. Brush off excess soil, but do not wash the bulbs. Leave the leaves attached during curing, as they allow the remaining nutrients and moisture to transfer into the bulbs, helping to develop the protective papery skin around the cloves​.

    Storage: After curing, garlic can be stored for several months if kept under the right conditions. Hang the garlic in bundles or spread it out on a mesh screen in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area where temperature fluctuations are minimal and humidity is around 70%.

    Avoid cutting off the leaves until the garlic is fully cured—typically two to three weeks—when the leaves, roots, and outer skin have dried completely. After curing, trim the leaves to about 2.5cm (1 inch) above the bulb and cut the roots off.

    Garlic can also be braided for storage and decorative purposes, in which case leaves should not be cut off. The best time to braid garlic is when the stems are partially dried—about half brown and still pliable. This typically occurs a few weeks after harvest.

    Store garlic in mesh bags, braids, or hanging bunches to maintain air circulation. Protect the bulbs from freezing in very cold areas. Storing whole bulbs in the refrigerator is not recommended, as the cold and humidity can cause them to sprout. However, peeled cloves can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for several weeks​.

    Propagation

    Garlic is primarily propagated by planting individual cloves from a bulb, each of which will grow into a new bulb over the growing season. Begin by selecting large, healthy cloves from disease-free bulbs, as these are more likely to produce robust plants and larger bulbs. When preparing cloves for planting, gently separate them from the bulb, taking care to keep the papery skin intact to protect against disease.

    Plant the cloves with the pointed end facing up and the flat end down, about 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) deep. Garlic is typically planted in autumn, allowing the cloves to establish roots before winter sets in. This period of cold exposure, known as vernalization, is crucial for triggering proper bulb development. In regions with milder winters, planting can be delayed until winter, though autumn planting is generally preferred for optimal results.

    As the growing season progresses, each clove will develop into a full bulb, ready for harvest by mid-summer. This simple propagation method allows gardeners to maintain a self-sustaining garlic crop year after year.

    Culinary Uses

    Garlic is an essential ingredient in kitchens around the world, prized for its ability to enhance and transform the flavor of a wide range of dishes. Its versatility allows it to be used in various forms—raw, cooked, or infused—each bringing a unique taste and aroma to meals.

    Garlic’s ability to enhance both simple and complex dishes makes it indispensable in culinary traditions worldwide. Whether roasted, sautéed, or used raw, garlic’s bold flavors and health benefits make it a kitchen staple.

    In conclusion, growing garlic is a rewarding endeavor for any gardener, offering both culinary delights and numerous health benefits. With proper care, garlic can be an easy and productive addition to any home garden.

    References

    1. Utah State University. (2024, February 1). How to grow garlic in your garden. USU. https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/garlic-in-the-garden
    2. Garlic (Allium sativum) | Diseases and Pests, Description, Uses, Propagation. (n.d.). https://plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/garlic/infos
    3. Bulletin #2063, Growing garlic in Maine – Cooperative Extension Publications – University of Maine Cooperative Extension. (2024, May 22). Cooperative Extension Publications. https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2063e/
    4. Utah State University. (2024, February 1). How to grow garlic in your garden. USU. https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/garlic-in-the-garden
    5. Garlic, Allium sativum. (n.d.). Wisconsin Horticulture. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/garlic-allium-sativum/
    6. Coolong, T., & Dorn, S. T. (n.d.). Garlic production for the Gardener. UGA Cooperative Extension. https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=C854#Harvest
    7. Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. (n.d.). Blood and Bone Fertiliser. Government of Western Australia. Retrieved from https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/fertiliser/blood-and-bone-fertiliser
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