Avoid buying garlic. Apply these 10 tricks for a never-ending garlic supply.

Tired of buying garlic?

You don’t have to!

Discover 10 simple tricks to grow an endless supply of garlic at home.

Ready for a garlic-filled future?

Let’s get started!

1. Pick the Right Garlic

Selecting the appropriate type of garlic is crucial for success. There are two main types: Softneck and Hardneck. Softneck varieties are popular for their long shelf life and are often found in stores. Hardneck varieties, on the other hand, offer a range of flavors and produce larger cloves. Consider your climate and culinary needs when making your selection.

2. Plant at the Right Time

Planting garlic at the correct time is crucial for a successful harvest. In colder regions, aim to plant garlic cloves in the fall before the ground freezes. For milder climates, late winter or early spring is ideal. This timing helps your garlic get a strong start.

3. Prep the Soil

Garlic favors well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic material. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to boost fertility and enhance drainage. Aim for a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

4. Plant Cloves Correctly

Separate the garlic cloves and plant them pointy end up. Place them about 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart. Ensure the soil covers the cloves adequately without compacting. Garlic needs space for optimal growth.

5. Use Mulch

Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, like straw or leaves, after planting. Mulching helps to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. It also prevents weeds, ensuring that your garlic has access to all necessary nutrients.

6. Water Regularly

Ensure your garlic plants receive a steady supply of moisture. Water consistently, particularly during periods of drought. Avoid excessive watering as garlic is prone to bulb rot in overly wet soil.

7. Maintain Your Garlic

Maintain your garlic with minimal effort. Regularly check the mulch and add more if needed. Manually remove any invasive weeds to protect the shallow roots.

8. Harvest When Ready

When the lower leaves of your garlic plants turn brown, with a few green leaves still visible, it’s time to harvest. This typically happens in mid-summer, depending on your region’s climate. Gently dig up the bulbs, ensuring not to cause any damage.

9. Dry and Store

After harvesting garlic, hang it in a cool, dry area with ample air circulation to dry. Once dried, store it in a dark, dry place to keep it in good condition for several months. Ensure the storage area maintains consistent dryness to avoid quality loss.

10. Replant the Best Cloves

Select the healthiest and largest cloves from your recent garlic harvest for replanting next season. Replanting these high-quality cloves can help cultivate a garlic strain well-suited to your local environment. By doing so, you save money and enjoy the benefits of a consistently reliable garlic supply. This strategy reduces your need for store-bought garlic and ensures that your kitchen or garden remains a productive source of organic garlic. A little effort and attention to detail can transform your growing space into a thriving garlic hub.