How to Grow Garlic

Overview

Garlic is wonderfully easy to grow and takes up very little space. In temperate climates, it is traditionally planted in autumn to give the cloves a cold period that promotes proper bulb formation. Hardneck varieties produce delicious scapes (flower stems) as a bonus crop in early summer, while softneck types store longer.

Health Benefits

Allicin for immune support: When crushed or chopped, garlic releases allicin, a compound that may support immune function and has been used medicinally for thousands of years across many cultures.

Manganese and Vitamin B6: Garlic is a good source of manganese (important for bone health and metabolism) and Vitamin B6 (supporting brain function and energy production).

Selenium and antioxidant properties: Garlic contains trace amounts of selenium and a range of sulphur compounds that may help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Soil Preparation

Garlic needs well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny position. Waterlogged soil causes cloves to rot over winter. Dig in well-rotted compost and ensure good drainage, especially on clay soils. The ideal pH is 6.0 to 7.0. Raised beds are excellent for garlic as they provide improved drainage.

Sowing & Planting

Plant individual cloves from October to February, with autumn planting giving the best results. Push each clove pointy end up into the soil, 5cm deep and 15cm apart, in rows 30cm apart. Use only garlic bulbs from a reputable garden supplier, not supermarket garlic, which may carry disease or not be suited to your local conditions.

Care & Maintenance

Garlic is low-maintenance once planted. Keep beds weed-free and water during dry spells in spring and early summer. Stop watering a couple of weeks before harvest to help the bulbs cure. If growing hardneck varieties, cut the scapes in June when they curl; this directs energy into bulb growth and the scapes are delicious stir-fried.

Harvesting

Harvest garlic from June to August when the lower leaves start to yellow but before all the foliage dies back completely. Ease bulbs out with a fork and dry them in a warm, airy spot for 2-3 weeks. Once the skins are papery, trim the roots and store in a cool, dry place. Softneck garlic can be plaited for attractive storage.

Common Problems

Rust appears as orange spots on leaves and weakens the plant. There is no effective treatment; remove affected leaves and avoid planting garlic in the same spot for three years.

White rot causes white fluffy mould at the base and is persistent in the soil. Do not grow alliums in infected ground for at least 8 years.

Birds may pull newly planted cloves from the soil. Cover beds with netting or fleece until shoots are established.

Companion Planting

Garlic is an excellent companion for carrots, tomatoes, and beetroot, with its strong scent deterring many pests. Avoid planting near beans and peas, as garlic can inhibit their growth.