Hardneck Garlic Growing Tips
Soil Preparation
- Testing the soil - Ideal range is 6-7 pH
- Adding organic matter - compost or well-rotted manure
- Loosen the soil for proper aeration and drainage
- Work the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches
Planting
Break garlic bulb into cloves first.
- Planting Orientation: Pointy side up root side down
- Clove Spacing: 6 inches apart
- Row Spacing: 12-18 inches apart
- Clove Depth: At least 2 inches
- Mulch Application (optional): Cover the garlic bed with 2-5 inches of mulch (straw or leaves)
- Weed Control: Weed regularly, garlic doesn't like competition
- When to Plant: Plant according to your last frost date based on your gardening zone. Get it in the ground before it feezes.
Scapes
- Cut scapes when they have one full curl to promote bigger bulb growth
- Typically around the beginning of summer
Harvest and Storage
- Cleaning: Brush dirt off bulbs lightly so they are visually clean (Do not use water)
- Curing: Dry garlic in a dark place with airflow until the necks are dry, ideal temperature being 55-65 degrees F
- Storage: Stores around 5-9 months in ideal conditions