A GUIDE TO GARLIC GROWING 

Here at The Garlic Farm, we’re often asked questions about garlic planting and care. From when to plant, to when to harvest, we’ve answered your most common questions. 

When to plant garlic? For Autumn planting varieties, plant from mid-October to early December. For Spring planting varieties, plant from mid-January to mid-March. Garlic will benefit from the cold temperatures in the early stage of its growing process. 

Where to plant garlic? Garlic likes full sun in Spring and Summer, so select a sunny spot. Well-drained soil is a must, to avoid rotting. To improve your soil, mix in compost or wood chip. This will help improve texture, nutrients and drainage. 

How to plant garlic? Break the bulbs into cloves, but do not peel. Plant the cloves with their own depth of soil above them, about 5 – 10cm deep, spaced 15 – 20cm apart. Completely cover with soil. 

How to care for your garlic? Simply weed and water. Keep your garlic as weed free as possible. Keep soil moist. Top dress with organic fertiliser.  

When to harvest? Harvest between May and July, depending on the type of garlic and when it was planted. 

The garlic harvest 'rule of thumb' is: wait until most leaves have turned yellow/brown. 

Autumn planted varieties such as Rhapsody Wight can be harvested early and used whole including green leaves. 

Spring planted varieties such as Mersley Wight, Solent Wight and Picardy Wight will be ready to harvest last, normally in late July. 

How to dry and store garlic? Dry in a warm location such as a windowsill or greenhouse. Properly dried garlic will last longer. Once dry, store at room temperature, with plenty of airflow – the kitchen side will do just fine.