By: Michelle Cahoon
Garlic is not just a kitchen staple but also a delight to grow, especially for those who cherish the process of planting to harvesting. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, growing garlic can be a
rewarding experience. Let me guide you through the joys of growing this pungent, flavorful bulb.
Planting Garlic: A Clove's Journey
Fall Planting:
The traditional time to plant garlic is in the fall. Simply take a clove from this year’s harvest, nestle it in the soil, cover it with mulch, and patiently wait for summer to reap your rewards. Post-harvest, the
same bed is ready for your next crop!
Spring Planting:
For those in milder climates, planting garlic in February or March is also an option. Although the bulbs might be smaller, the taste is just as robust. Plus, you get to enjoy the scapes (the tender green shoots) in early spring, which are fantastic in stir-fries or salads.
Store-Bought Garlic: A No-Go
It’s best to avoid planting garlic from the grocery store as it's often treated and not suited for varying climates. Instead, opt for “seed” garlic from local nurseries, farmers' markets, or online suppliers.
Remember to save some of your best garlic heads for replanting!
Varieties to Consider
It's essential to know the difference between the two main types of garlic - hard neck and soft neck - and which type thrives in your climate.
Hardneck Garlic:
Ideal for Northern gardeners, hardneck garlic is known for its cold hardiness and produces fewer but larger cloves. Don’t forget to harvest the scapes in early summer! Varieties like ‘Music’ and ‘German Red’ are
popular choices.
Softneck Garlic:
More common in the South, softneck varieties grow well in warmer climates and tend to have a more intense flavor. They’re perfect for braiding and have a longer shelf life. Varieties such as ‘California White’ and
‘Inchelium Red’ are great options.
Planting Tips
Choose a sunny spot and enrich the soil with compost or aged manure. If dealing with heavy clay, consider raised beds for better drainage. Plant cloves about 4 to 8 inches apart, 2 inches deep, and in rows
spaced 6 to 12 inches apart. For those in colder regions, don’t forget to mulch!
Care and Harvest
Garlic requires little maintenance but benefits greatly from regular weeding and watering. Fertilize in early spring and again before the bulbs begin to swell. As the weather warms, look out for the emerging shoots.
Enjoying Your Garlic
Harvest your garlic around the summer solstice and enjoy the scapes as a spicy addition to your dishes. Try making garlic powder or roasted garlic for an extra treat.
Growing garlic is a simple yet fulfilling endeavor, offering a range of culinary delights and gardening satisfaction. So why not try your hand at growing this versatile and flavorful bulb? The rewards are plenty, from the garden to the kitchen.
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