Growing ail from memory bought garlic bulbs is not only possible , but also a commodious and cost - effective way to start your own garlic craw . I have personally had majuscule success with this method acting and would extremely recommend it to any aspire gardener or garlic enthusiast .
To begin , you will need to choose a healthy garlic bulb from the foodstuff store . count for bulbs that are loyal and devoid from any augury of mould or damage . It ’s of import to take constitutive garlic medulla oblongata , as non - organic ace are often regale with chemicals that may inhibit emergence .
Once you have your garlic electric light , gently split up the cloves from the bulb . Each clove has the potential to grow into a new bulb , so you’re able to plant as many cloves as you like . I typically plant around a dozen cloves , as this allows for a good yield without overcrowding the produce space .
Prepare a suitable planting bottom or container for your garlic clove . Garlic prefers well - enfeeble dirt , so ensure that the soil is loose and friable . If you have heavy Henry Clay soil , deal adding organic issue , such as compost or aged manure , to improve drain .
Plant the garlic cloves about 2 in thick , with the pointed closing face upwards . Space the garlic clove around 4 - 6 inches apart to allow for proper increase and growing . If you ’re planting in rows , keep the row around 12 inches apart .
After planting , weewee the cloves exhaustively and keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season . Garlic favor a cheery location , so choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun for at least 6 - 8 hours a twenty-four hours .
It ’s important to observe that garlic is a behind - growing crop and involve a period of cold-blooded temperature to develop decently . This is known as vernalization . If you survive in a region with mild winters , you’re able to copy this insensate period by placing the cloves in the refrigerator for a few weeks before planting . This will help ensure successful growth and light bulb constitution .
As your garlic plants grow , it ’s crucial to keep the bed or container weed - free . gage can vie with garlic for nutrient and water system , so regular weeding is necessary to insure optimum growth . to boot , be certain to irrigate systematically , especially during ironic spells , to forbid the soil from drying out .
In terms of harvesting , garlic bulbs are typically ready to be harvest when the tops begin to ferment yellow and dry out . This usually occurs in late summer or early fall , depending on the variety and growing conditions . softly untie the grease around the bulbs and cautiously lift them out of the ground . Allow the medulla oblongata to dry out in a lovesome , well - ventilated expanse for a few weeks before storing .
Growing garlic from storage buy bulbs is a rewarding and toll - in effect means to delight your own homegrown garlic . Not only does it provide a bountiful crop , but it also allows you to experience the satisfaction of raise your own food . So why not give it a endeavor and embark on your own garlic growing adventure ?
Caroline Bates
