Garlic Farming: A Practical Starter Guide

Garlic farming at a glance

Garlic is a hardy bulb crop that grows well in many home gardens. It comes in two main types: hardneck and softneck. Most gardeners plant in fall so the bulbs can form slowly through winter and be harvested the following summer. A good garlic plan covers variety, soil, and timing.

Choosing garlic varieties

Hardneck garlic tends to perform well in colder regions and produces edible flower stalks called scapes. Softneck garlic stores longer and is well suited for milder climates. Choose varieties known to perform well in your area and match your storage goals.

Preparing soil and beds

Garlic prefers loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Aim for a pH around 6.0–7.0. Work in compost or well-rotted manure (weeks before planting is best) but avoid fresh manure right before planting. Raised beds or long, wide beds improve drainage. Plan for full sun.

Planting garlic cloves

Plant in fall, about 4–6 weeks before the first hard frost. Break seed bulbs into individual cloves, keeping the skins intact. Plant each clove 2–3 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart, with the pointed end up. Space rows 12–18 inches apart and mulch with straw or leaves to protect overwintering cloves.

Care and maintenance

Keep beds weeded and evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. In early spring, you can side-dress with a balanced fertilizer if growth seems slow. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot.

Harvesting and curing

Harvest when the lower leaves turn yellow or begin to brown, usually in mid to late summer. Lift bulbs carefully to avoid bruising. Cure in a dry, airy place for 2–4 weeks until the skins are dry to the touch. Then trim roots and tops and store.

Common pests and diseases

Watch for pests like onion thrips or allium leaf miner and diseases such as white rot. Practice crop rotation, sanitation, and remove any diseased plants promptly. Avoid planting garlic where allium diseases were present in previous seasons. Use clean tools and rotate beds.

Garlic storage and usage

Cured garlic keeps best in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Store softneck in braided bunches or nets, and hardneck in mesh bags. Do not seal in plastic bags for long-term storage. Use within 6–9 months for softneck, and longer for some hardneck varieties, depending on conditions.