What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process of growing garlic from seed heads, from harvesting the seed heads to nurturing the young garlic plants.
- However, if left to bloom, the scapes will produce small, black bulbils which are the seeds of the garlic plant.
- This is usually when the scapes are straight and upright, with a tight bud at the top.
Garlic, a staple in kitchens worldwide, is known for its pungent flavor and numerous health benefits. While most gardeners are familiar with planting garlic cloves, did you know that you can also grow garlic from seed heads? This method, though a bit more time-consuming, offers a unique way to propagate your favorite garlic variety and potentially cultivate new ones. This guide will walk you through the process of growing garlic from seed heads, from harvesting the seed heads to nurturing the young garlic plants.
Understanding Garlic Seed Heads
Garlic seed heads, also known as scapes, are the flower stalks that emerge from the garlic plant. These stalks are typically cut off by gardeners to encourage larger bulb growth. However, if left to bloom, the scapes will produce small, black bulbils which are the seeds of the garlic plant.
Harvesting Garlic Seed Heads
To harvest garlic seed heads for propagation, you need to select healthy plants with robust scapes. Here’s how:
- Timing is key: Harvest the scapes when they are about to bloom, but before the flowers open. This is usually when the scapes are straight and upright, with a tight bud at the top.
- Cut the scape: Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the scape about 2 inches below the bud. This will allow the bulbils to ripen properly.
- Allow the scapes to dry: Hang the cut scapes in a dry, well-ventilated area for about two weeks. This will allow the bulbils to harden and become more viable for planting.
Preparing the Bulbils for Planting
Once the scapes have dried, you can begin preparing the bulbils for planting. Here’s how:
- Separate the bulbils: Gently rub the scapes to loosen the bulbils. You can also break them off by hand.
- Clean the bulbils: Remove any debris or leftover scape material from the bulbils.
- Soak the bulbils: Soak the bulbils in water for 24 hours before planting. This will help them rehydrate and improve their germination rate.
Planting Garlic Bulbils
Garlic bulbils are best planted in the fall, similar to garlic cloves. Here’s how:
- Choose a sunny location: Garlic needs plenty of sunlight to thrive. Select a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Prepare the soil: Garlic prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Amend your soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
- Plant the bulbils: Plant the bulbils about 1/2 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart. You can plant them in rows or in a more random pattern.
- Water thoroughly: Water the newly planted bulbils well to help them establish roots.
Caring for Young Garlic Plants
Once the bulbils are planted, it’s important to provide them with the care they need to grow into healthy garlic plants. Here’s how:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply during dry periods.
- Fertilize as needed: Garlic benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every few weeks during the growing season.
- Mulch the soil: Apply a layer of mulch around the garlic plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Control pests and diseases: Watch out for common garlic pests and diseases. Use organic pest control methods if necessary.
Harvesting Your Garlic
Garlic bulbils will take longer to mature than garlic cloves, typically taking two to three years to reach full size. Here’s how to harvest your garlic:
- Timing is key: Harvest your garlic when the leaves begin to turn yellow and brown. This usually occurs in late summer or early fall.
- Dig up the bulbs: Use a garden fork to gently lift the bulbs from the ground.
- Clean and cure the bulbs: Remove any excess soil and allow the bulbs to cure in a dry, well-ventilated area for about two weeks.
The Rewards of Patience: Growing Garlic from Seed Heads
Growing garlic from seed heads is a rewarding experience, but it requires patience and perseverance. Here are some of the benefits:
- Genetic diversity: Growing garlic from seed heads allows you to potentially create new varieties with unique characteristics.
- Propagating rare varieties: You can easily propagate rare garlic varieties that are not readily available as cloves.
- A sense of accomplishment: Successfully growing garlic from seed heads is a testament to your gardening skills.
A Final Word on Growing Garlic from Seed Heads
While growing garlic from seed heads may seem daunting, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these steps and exercising patience, you can enjoy the satisfaction of cultivating your own garlic from seed to harvest.
Information You Need to Know
1. Why is it important to harvest the scapes before they bloom?
Harvesting the scapes before they bloom ensures that the bulbils have the best chance of developing and becoming viable for planting. If the flowers open, the bulbils will be smaller and less likely to germinate.
2. Can I plant the bulbils in the spring?
While garlic cloves can be planted in the spring, it’s best to plant bulbils in the fall. This allows them to establish roots before winter and start growing in the spring.
3. How long does it take for garlic bulbils to mature?
Garlic bulbils typically take two to three years to mature into full-sized bulbs. This is longer than garlic cloves, which usually take one year.
4. What are some common pests and diseases that can affect garlic?
Some common garlic pests include garlic mites, onion flies, and aphids. Common diseases include white rot, downy mildew, and rust.
5. Can I use garlic bulbils to grow garlic in containers?
Yes, you can grow garlic bulbils in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Plant the bulbils as described above and provide them with adequate sunlight, water, and fertilization.
