A Complete Guide to Successfully Planting Garlic in the UK
- Ethical Organic Seeds
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Garlic is more than just an ingredient; it's a vital part of many recipes and boasts numerous health benefits. If you're a gardener in the UK eager to grow your own organic garlic, you're in for a fun journey! This guide will help you through each step of planting and cultivating garlic, so you can enjoy a plentiful harvest.
Why Grow Garlic?
Growing your own garlic is not just satisfying; it can also save you money. Freshly harvested garlic has a flavour that outshines store-bought varieties, often leading to a better-tasting dish. In addition, garlic is remarkably easy to grow. Once planted, it requires minimal care. According to research, growing your own garlic can yield 10 to 15 bulbs from just one clove, making it a worthwhile addition to your garden.
Choosing the Right Garlic Variety
Before planting, selecting the proper garlic variety is crucial. In the UK, you'll mainly find two types:
Hardneck Garlic: Known for its strong flavor, this variety produces a flowering stalk. It thrives in colder climates and is often more resistant to diseases, making it a great choice for harsher winters. Our hardneck variety is Cledor which can be planted in winter.
Softneck Garlic: More commonly found in supermarkets, this type has a milder flavor and stores well. It is best suited for milder UK climates and longer growing seasons. Our Rustisem and Primor are both soft neck varieties that will grow throughout winter when planted in autumn.
Preparing the Soil
Garlic thrives in rich, well-drained soil. Here's how to prepare your garden bed:
Choose a Location: Look for a sunny spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day. Garlic loves the light!
Amend the Soil: Mixing organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure into your soil not only boosts fertility but also improves drainage. We recommend Crimson Clover Green Manure.
Pick the Right Companion Plants: Growing garlic next to peas, beans and potatoes will double, sometimes even triple the size of your garlic bulbs.
Planting Garlic
Now that your soil is ready, it's time to plant!
Break Apart the Bulbs: Just before planting, carefully separate the garlic bulbs into individual cloves.
Planting Depth: Plant each clove about 2 inches deep, ensuring the pointed end is facing up. Space the cloves 6 inches apart in rows, with each row 12 inches apart.
Watering: After planting, give the area a thorough watering. Garlic enjoys consistent moisture, particularly during its growing phase. Usually this isn't a problem in the UK, but more recently with heatwaves, it is becoming essential to water garlic regularly.
Caring for Your Garlic
Garlic is low-maintenance but does require some care to thrive:
Mulching: Add a layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to keep moisture in and weeds out.
Watering: Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, particularly during dry periods. However, watch out for overwatering, as garlic can rot if waterlogged.
Weed Control: Check regularly for weeds and remove them. Hand weeding can prevent competition for essential nutrients.
Harvesting Garlic
Knowing when to harvest is key for getting the most out of your garlic crop. Here's how to identify when it's ready:
Timing: Most garlic is ripe for harvesting between mid-July and August, depending on your planting date.
Signs of Maturity: Look for the lower leaves starting to yellow and die back. When roughly half of the leaves are brown, it's time to harvest.
Harvesting Technique: Push a garden fork or spade underneath your garlic to gently lift the bulbs from the ground without damaging them.
Storing Your Garlic
After harvesting, the way you store garlic is critical for maintaining its quality:
Curing: Allow the garlic to cure in a dry, dark area with good air circulation for about two to three weeks. This step enhances flavor and extends shelf life.
Storage Conditions: Once cured, keep your garlic in a cool, dark place. A mesh bag or basket improves airflow and prevents mold.
Using Your Garlic: Your homegrown organic garlic can elevate countless dishes, from simple pastas to flavorful roasted vegetables.
Ready to Get Started?
Planting garlic in the UK offers rewards that go beyond just food— it's a journey into organic gardening that can enrich your culinary skills. By faithfully following these steps, you can successfully grow your own garlic and enjoy the delicious results. Grab your tools, pick your favorite garlic variety, and start planting! Happy gardening!
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