It’s hard to imagine a kitchen without garlic, right? It’s such a staple for so many recipes, which makes growing it in your own backyard even more rewarding. The best part is that this pungent little bulb is incredibly low-maintenance and actually gives you two different windows for planting throughout the year.
Winter Garlic vs. Spring Garlic
If you want the best results, autumn is hands-down the best time for tucking your garlic into the ground. Aim for September or October to get those cloves in the soil. The natural moisture we usually get in the fall helps the roots establish themselves without much fuss. If you miss the fall window, you can plant “spring garlic” from mid-February to mid-March. Just a heads-up: garlic planted in the spring usually results in a slightly smaller harvest than the fall-planted varieties.
Pro Tip: If you missed the fall planting window and are worried about a late start, you can give your cloves a little jumpstart. Try sprouting them on a damp paper towel before you set them in the dirt. You’ll see green shoots popping up in no time, and it helps the garlic settle in quickly to handle the rest of the cold season.
