Autumn Planting Oct-Dec
Garlic is generally best planted in autumn, as many varieties benefit from a period of cold weather to form well-developed bulbs.
Planting information
- Planting time: October to December
- Harvest time: June to August
- Position: Full sun
- Planting depth: Tip approximately 2.5 cm below soil
- Spacing: Approximately 15 cm apart
- Row spacing: Approximately 30 cm
- Soil: Fertile and free-draining
How to plant
- Separate bulbs into cloves shortly before planting and keep the papery skins intact.
- Use the largest, healthiest cloves.
- Plant each clove with the pointed end upwards.
- Position the tip approximately 2.5 cm below the surface.
- Use raised beds or containers where soil is heavy or wet.
Ongoing care and harvesting
- Keep the planting area weed-free.
- Water during dry periods from spring into early summer.
- Stop regular watering when leaves begin to yellow.
- Remove flower stalks from hardneck garlic if larger bulbs are preferred.
- Lift when several lower leaves have yellowed, then dry in an airy place.
Spring Planting Feb-Mar
Garlic can also be planted in late winter or early spring. Plant as early as conditions allow so plants have enough time to develop.
Planting information
- Planting time: February to March
- Harvest time: July to August
- Position: Full sun
- Planting depth: Tip approximately 2.5 cm below soil
- Spacing: Approximately 15 cm apart
- Row spacing: Approximately 30 cm
- Soil: Fertile and free-draining
How to plant
- Separate the bulb into cloves immediately before planting.
- Select firm, healthy cloves and keep papery skins intact.
- Plant with the pointed tip facing upwards.
- Cover so the tip sits approximately 2.5 cm below the surface.
- Space rows approximately 30 cm apart.
Ongoing care and harvesting
- Keep the bed free from weeds.
- Water during prolonged dry spells while bulbs form.
- Avoid wetting foliage unnecessarily.
- Reduce and stop watering as leaves yellow.
- Lift once lower leaves yellow, then cure before storage.
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