Garlic is a total must-have for any kitchen. Not only is it super easy to grow, but it’s also packed with amazing health benefits. The coolest part? From just one single clove, you can harvest a dozen new ones! It’s way simpler to cultivate than most people think, and when you eat it fresh from the garden, the flavor is incredibly mild and delicious.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Garlic is a fantastic companion plant, especially when planted next to strawberries or carrots. When picking a spot, avoid soil that’s too heavy or stays soggy. You’ll get the best harvests in a sunny, slightly sheltered area with soil rich in organic matter. A good rule of thumb: if onions grow well in your garden, garlic will thrive there too! It definitely pays off to enrich your soil with compost—just make sure to dig it in a little deeper than you usually would.
Mind Your Crop Rotation
You really want to pay attention to crop rotation in your garden beds. Never plant garlic in a spot where onions (or any other alliums) grew the year before. It’s best to wait several years before planting them in the same spot again; otherwise, you’re just inviting pests and diseases to move in. Also, keep in mind that garlic is hardy and actually needs about 30 to 60 days of temperatures below 50°F (10°C) to develop properly.
How to Plant Your Garlic
First, gently break the bulb apart into individual cloves. Use a small trowel to prep your holes. You’ll want to tuck the cloves into the well-prepared soil about 2 inches deep, making sure the pointy side is facing up. Space your rows about 10 inches apart to give them plenty of room to breathe.
Can You Plant Just Any Garlic?
Technically, you can try planting any garlic you find, but I highly recommend sticking to varieties grown in your specific region. Garlic from far-away places (like China) is used to completely different climates and might struggle in your backyard. Check out your local farmers’ market for native varieties, or browse the wide selection of seed garlic available at garden centers.
Recommended Varieties
- “Solent White”: This is a super hardy variety that’s perfect for fall or winter planting.
- “Rose de Lautrec”: A beautiful pink variety from France known for its delicate, gourmet flavor.
- Elephant Garlic: Technically a relative of the leek, this produces massive bulbs (up to 4 inches!) with a very mild garlic taste.
