What To Know
- Hardneck garlic features a central stalk called a scape, which produces flower buds known as garlic scapes.
- Planting in the fall allows the garlic to develop a strong root system before the cold weather sets in.
- Allow the bulbs to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few weeks before storing.
Garlic, the pungent powerhouse of flavor, is a staple in kitchens worldwide. Its versatility and health benefits make it a must-have in any garden. But how to grow garlic outside can seem daunting for beginners. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right variety to harvesting your own delicious garlic.
Choosing the Right Garlic Variety: A Flavorful Start
The first step in your garlic growing journey is selecting the right variety. Garlic comes in two main types: hardneck and softneck.
Hardneck garlic features a central stalk called a scape, which produces flower buds known as garlic scapes. This type is known for its strong flavor and large cloves. Popular hardneck varieties include:
- Purple Stripe: A classic choice with vibrant purple stripes and a robust flavor.
- Music: This variety boasts a sweet, mild flavor and is known for its good storage quality.
- German Red: A robust garlic with a strong, pungent flavor.
Softneck garlic lacks a scape and tends to have smaller cloves. It’s favored for its longer storage life and milder flavor. Popular softneck varieties include:
- Early Italian: A prolific producer with a mild flavor, perfect for fresh use.
- Inchelium Red: A long-lasting variety with a slightly sweet flavor.
- Silver White: Known for its white cloves and mild, sweet flavor.
Consider your climate, personal preference for flavor, and storage needs when selecting your garlic variety.
Planting Time: Spring or Fall?
The optimal planting time for garlic depends on your location and the type of garlic you’re growing.
- Fall planting: This is the preferred method for most regions, especially those with cold winters. Planting in the fall allows the garlic to develop a strong root system before the cold weather sets in. Aim for planting in late September or early October.
- Spring planting: In warmer climates without harsh winters, you can plant garlic in the spring. Plant your garlic cloves in early spring, after the last frost.
Site Selection: Sunshine and Soil
Garlic thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a well-drained location, as garlic dislikes soggy soil. The ideal soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Preparing the Soil: A Foundation for Growth
Before planting, prepare your soil by enriching it with organic matter. This can be done by adding compost, aged manure, or leaf mold. Loosening the soil with a garden fork or tiller will improve drainage and encourage root growth.
Planting Your Garlic Cloves: A Simple Process
Separate the garlic bulbs into individual cloves. Each clove has the potential to grow into a new bulb. Remove the papery outer skin and discard any damaged cloves.
- Fall planting: Plant the cloves 2-3 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
- Spring planting: Plant the cloves 1-2 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
After planting, water thoroughly.
Watering and Weeding: Essential Care
Garlic needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering. Aim for 1 inch of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall.
Keep the planting area free of weeds, as they compete for nutrients and water. Regularly hand-weed or use a hoe to control weeds.
Mulching: Protecting Your Garlic
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the garlic plants. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilizing: Nourishing Your Garlic
Garlic is a light feeder, so heavy fertilization isn’t necessary. However, a light application of compost or balanced fertilizer in the early spring can boost growth.
Harvesting Your Garlic: A Sign of Success
Garlic is ready for harvest when the leaves start to turn brown and dry. This usually happens around 8-10 months after planting for fall-planted garlic and 4-6 months for spring-planted garlic.
To harvest, gently pull the garlic bulbs from the ground. Allow the bulbs to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few weeks before storing.
Storing Your Garlic: Preserving the Flavor
Garlic can be stored for several months in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Store garlic bulbs in a single layer, avoiding contact with moisture.
Growing Garlic: A Rewarding Experience
Growing your own garlic is a rewarding experience. Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own produce, but you’ll also have a fresh supply of delicious garlic for your culinary creations.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I grow garlic in containers?
Yes, you can grow garlic in containers. Choose a container at least 12 inches deep and wide. Fill it with a good quality potting mix and follow the same planting and care instructions as for outdoor planting.
2. What are garlic scapes?
Garlic scapes are the flower stalks that grow from hardneck garlic varieties. They are edible and have a milder, more delicate flavor than garlic cloves.
3. How do I prevent garlic diseases?
Rotate your garlic crops every year to prevent the buildup of diseases. Also, choose disease-resistant garlic varieties and ensure proper drainage to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
4. What are the common pests that attack garlic?
Common garlic pests include aphids, onion flies, and nematodes. Use organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap, neem oil, or diatomaceous earth, to manage these pests.
5. Can I save garlic seeds for planting next year?
Garlic doesn’t produce seeds in the traditional sense. You can save cloves from your harvested garlic bulbs to plant the following year. However, it’s best to purchase new garlic bulbs every few years to ensure genetic diversity and prevent the buildup of diseases.
