garlicgrowing

Garlic is a hardy bulb crop (Allium sativum) grown worldwide for its cloves and pungent flavor. It is typically categorized into two cultivar groups: hardneck (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon) and softneck (A. sativum var. sativum). Gardeners usually grow from individual cloves rather than true seeds, since seed garlic is uncommon and less reliable.

Site selection and soil quality are important. Choose a well-drained, fertile soil with a pH around 6.0 to 7.0. Garlic prefers full sun and benefits from incorporating compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can cause rot.

Planting and spacing are straightforward. In temperate regions, plant in fall about 4 to 6 weeks before the first frost to establish roots before winter. In milder climates, fall or early winter planting is also common. Separate bulbs into cloves and plant each clove with the pointed end up, about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) deep. Space cloves 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart in rows 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart. Hardneck types may produce a flower stalk called a scape.

Care during growth includes mulching to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, and keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Apply a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with nitrogen in spring. If growing a hardneck, remove scapes when they appear to encourage bulb development; scapes are edible.

Harvest and storage: bulbs are ready when the lower leaves begin to brown. Lift carefully, then cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 2 to 4 weeks. After curing, store in a cool, dry, dark place. Softneck varieties store longer than hardnecks but all benefit from proper curing and air circulation.

Pests and diseases can affect garlic. Practice crop rotation, remove infected plant material, and source disease-free seed stock to reduce problems.