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A hand holding white and purple streaked Russian red hardneck garlic.
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Planting Garlic in the Fall for a Bountiful Harvest

Fall is the perfect time to begin planting garlic for a rewarding summer harvest. Timing is crucial, with planting ideally taking place 4-6 weeks before the first expected frost date in your region. This timing allows the garlic to establish sturdy roots before winter sets in. Don't worry if you plant a bit later; garlic is a resilient crop that can thrive even with a delayed start.
Author: Jana Dziak

Instructions

  • Soil Preparation
    Garlic thrives in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. To create an ideal growing environment, consider incorporating compost into your soil. This addition not only boosts fertility but also enhances soil structure, providing the perfect foundation for garlic growth.
  • Selecting Garlic Bulbs
    Choose healthy, disease-free garlic bulbs for planting. You can source bulbs from a garden center or use those saved from a previous harvest. Some gardeners reserve half of their harvest each year to replant, perpetuating their garlic stock.
  • Planting Garlic Cloves
    Plant garlic cloves individually with the pointed end facing upward. A depth of 1 to 2 inches is ideal, with cloves spaced 4 to 6 inches apart within rows and rows spaced 12 inches apart. This arrangement ensures adequate space for growth.
  • Mulching and Winter Protection
    To shield garlic from winter's chill, apply a layer of mulch such as straw, hay, or leaves. Mulch acts as insulation, safeguarding the soil and preventing extreme temperature fluctuations. Some gardeners even use compost as their mulch layer followed by additional organic materials.
  • Establishing Garlic Roots
    Water newly planted garlic cloves thoroughly to settle the soil around them. During the fall, garlic will establish roots, ready to go dormant over the winter.
  • Spring Growth and Maintenance
    As temperatures rise in spring, garlic will begin to grow. Ensure consistent moisture and be vigilant for signs of pests or diseases. Garlic is typically ready for harvest when its lower leaves turn brown, usually in late spring or early summer.
  • Harvesting Garlic Scapes
    These curly, green shoots appear in early summer and need to be removed to allow the garlic bulbs to grow to their full potential. As soon as the scapes emerge, typically in June, cut them off about an inch above the bulb. While some gardeners choose to leave the scapes to grow larger, doing so may result in smaller garlic bulbs underground.