How Do You Plant Garlic?

Growing Garlic: A Simple Yet Rewarding Crop

Garlic is one of those crops that feels like magic. You plant a single clove, and months later, out comes an entire bulb—each clove brimming with flavor and potential. It’s deeply satisfying, and frankly, it’s easier than most people imagine.

When to Plant Garlic

The best time to plant garlic is in the fall, about 4 to 6 weeks before the ground freezes. This gives the cloves time to establish roots before harsh winter weather sets in. In warmer climates, you can plant it in early spring, but I’ve found fall planting leads to bigger, tastier bulbs.

If you live somewhere with mild winters, don’t overthink it. Get them in the ground before the soil dries out completely, and they’ll do their thing.

Choosing the Right Garlic

There are two main types of garlic: *softneck* and *hardneck.* Hardneck thrives in colder climates, while softneck is better for warm regions. Personally, I love hardneck for its bold flavor and scapes—those twisty green shoots it throws in spring. They’re a bonus crop, perfect for stir-fries or pestos.

Pro tip: Avoid grocery store garlic for planting; it’s often treated to prevent sprouting. Go for seed garlic from a trusted supplier or a local farmer.

Preparing Your Garden Bed

Garlic likes rich, well-draining soil. It hates soggy feet. I work in a *generous* amount of compost—about an inch or two—before planting. If your soil is clay-heavy like mine used to be, loosen it up with sand or well-rotted organic matter.

Also, garlic prefers full sun. In a pinch, it’ll grow in part shade, but don’t expect festival-sized bulbs.

How to Plant Garlic

1. Break apart the bulb into individual cloves, leaving the papery skins intact. Choose the largest cloves for planting; eat the rest.
2. Plant each clove pointed-end up, about 2 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. Don’t plant them upside down—garlic isn’t that forgiving.
3. Water the bed immediately after planting to help the cloves settle in and start rooting.

If you’re short on space, garlic grows just as happily in pots. Use a deep container, and give each clove some breathing room.

The Care and Feeding of Garlic

Once planted, garlic is a remarkably low-maintenance crop. Keep the bed moist but not soggy, especially during its initial weeks. In fall, before temperatures plunge, I mulch heavily with straw. This protects the cloves and helps with water retention.

Skip the fertilizers loaded with nitrogen; they’ll encourage leaves at the expense of bulbs. A balanced organic fertilizer at planting time is enough to keep things on track.

Dealing with Spring Growth

In late spring, hardneck garlic will send up flower stalks called *scapes.* Cut those off once they curl to direct energy back into the bulbs. Plus, scapes taste phenomenal—like garlic’s wilder cousin. Include them in your scramble, or pickle them if you’re feeling fancy.

If leaves start yellowing too soon, it could mean pests or overwatering. Keep an eye out for signs of rust or onion maggots; quick action saves the crop.

When and How to Harvest Garlic

By mid to late summer, you’ll notice the lower leaves turning brown, a clear sign that harvest time is near. Don’t let all the leaves dry out, or bulbs could split in the soil. Aim for about 5 green leaves remaining.

Gently loosen the soil with a fork before lifting. Forcing them out might damage the bulbs, and no one wants bruised garlic.

Drying and Storing Your Garlic

Once harvested, cure garlic in a warm, dry spot for two to three weeks. Hang it in bundles or spread it out with good airflow. Don’t panic if it takes time; curing is what gives garlic its long shelf life.

Remember: A properly cured bulb stored in the right conditions can last up to a year. That’s garden-grown convenience at its finest.

After curing, trim the roots and cut back the stems. Store bulbs in a cool, dark place. A pantry works best; forget the fridge—it’s too humid in there.

Final Thoughts on Growing Garlic

Growing garlic is more satisfying than explaining to someone why it tastes better homegrown—because it just does. Start with the basics, and the garlic will do the rest. It’s one of those crops that proves itself quietly, without fanfare, every single time.

Planting garlic is a simple but time-honored activity that delivers so much satisfaction. Whether you’re a veteran or novice gardener, taking the time to learn the process and enjoy this tasty and healthy plant can be a real pleasure. Take the time, enjoy the process, and you’ll soon reap the rewards!