Growing Garlic

Allium sativum : Amaryllidaceae / the onion family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
                P P    

(Best months for growing Garlic in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Plant cloves

September: Garlic can overwinter. Cover with a good layer of mulch . In areas where frost persists into March/ April, expect to harvest your garlic in June/July.

October: Garlic can overwinter. Cover with a good layer of mulch . In areas where frost persists into March/ April, expect to harvest your garlic in June/July.

  • Easy to grow. Plant cloves. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 4 - 5 inches apart
  • Harvest in 17-25 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Beets, Carrots, Cucumbers, Dill, Tomatoes, Parsnips
  • Avoid growing close to: Asparagus, Beans, Brassicas, Peas, Potatoes

Your comments and tips

24 Apr 17, Kobus (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
I'm a blind person and want to plant garlic. I'm looking for as much info as possible on the cultivation of garlic, but it looks like I'm at a dead-end. I found an address on the web, but they just don't answer my mails. Where can I get information please?
15 May 17, Romy (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Probeer [email protected] tel0832273447
25 Apr 17, John (Australia - temperate climate)
Garlic is not hard to grow. Get someone to read the information on garlic growing on this site. Click on 'vegetables & herbs and select 'garlic'. You can buy garlic cloves from fruit shops and nurseries at this time of the year. Make sure it is not imported as some imported garlic carries disease. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any more questions, we are here to help.
21 Apr 17, Pillet (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Can I get Garlic seedlings service provider in KZN .
30 Apr 17, John (Australia - temperate climate)
Look online. www.seedsforafrica.co.za list garlic. There are sure to be others as well.
21 Apr 17, Petros (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
I want to start a small garlic farm . I'm staying at Highflats near IXOPO . My question is how long does it takes to be ready for market Second question my area is suitable to plant garlic? Thanks Petros. Please note - Gardenate is NOT intended for Farming questions. (Ed:)
30 Apr 17, John (Australia - temperate climate)
I would advise you to discuss your plan with your Agriculture Department (Government). They will have a better understanding of suitable varieties and also how to grow them in your area. Look them up on the internet.
17 Apr 17, Ingrid (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
Hi, I am in Knysna South Africa (not sure if I have chosen the right climate zone?). I would like to plant garlic asap and wonder if it is too early and whether it would suit a shady area in my veg garden?
20 Apr 17, John (Australia - temperate climate)
Garlic prefers cooler conditions so plant the clovves in April or May for haresting later in the year.
16 Apr 17, Lisa (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
I'm in fort Beaufort I want to plant garlic where can I get seedlings
Showing 441 - 450 of 907 comments

Thankyou for comments. I am preparing soil now for planting. may be in two to three weeks.Have had to get soil hoed up this year instead of digging up. Much easier.! I have only sold in small amounts this year . Have found if customers buy lots to plant they forget about it or cannot find it amongst weeds etc. Home gardners are better to plant no more than 20 bulbs .They can look after them fertilise etc. They do need care, although easy to grow. They have wonder flavour and do not go off. I market my Garlic for your Good Health and to eat them freshly sliced daily with a biscuit and a little tomato on fresh bread and honey. or toast. Wonderfull.Thats why I call them the "Pearls of Life."

- Barbara Burnet

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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