Garlic is a hardy bulb that�s easy to grow and can enhance any dish. It requires minimal care once planted. Here�s a comprehensive guide to growing garlic using organic methods.
Essential Materials
- Garlic cloves
- Fertile, well-draining soil
- Compost
- Mulch
- Watering can or hose
Choosing Garlic Varieties
Garlic comes in two main types:
- Hardneck: Produces flower stalks (scapes) and is more winter-hardy.
- Softneck: Stores longer and doesn�t produce scapes.
Soil Preparation
Garlic thrives in loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Follow these steps:
- Tilling: Work the soil to a depth of 8-12 inches (20-30 cm).
- Composting: Add 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of compost and mix well.
Planting Garlic
Plant garlic cloves in the fall, 4-6 weeks before the first frost:
- Spacing: Plant cloves 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) apart in rows 12 inches (30 cm) apart.
- Depth: Insert cloves 2 inches (5 cm) deep, pointed end up.
Watering and Mulching
Keep the soil evenly moist:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Mulching: Apply straw mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Fertilizing Organically
Garlic benefits from organic nutrients:
- Top-dress with compost or use a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring.
Harvesting Garlic
Harvest when the lower leaves turn brown:
- Timing: Usually mid-summer, 8-9 months after planting.
- Method: Lift bulbs gently with a garden fork.
Storing Garlic
Proper storage keeps garlic usable for months:
- Curing: Dry garlic bulbs in a warm, airy place for 2-3 weeks.
- Storage: Store cured garlic in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Extra Tips
- Garlic deters pests; consider planting it around the perimeter of your garden.
- Save the best bulbs for replanting next season.
