Autumn-planting garlic – more info
Planting garlic bulbs in the autumn produces flavoursome bulbs with little effort. Once planted, your crop requires minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners of all levels. With the right preparation, you'll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest come summer. Read our article on how to grow autumn-planting garlic and browse our frequently asked questions below.
How to plant garlic bulbs
To plant garlic bulbs, start by breaking apart the bulb into individual cloves, leaving the papery skins intact. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant each clove around 2cm deep with the pointed end facing up, and space them about 10cm apart. Incorporate plenty of compost to improve drainage and feed the soil.
When to plant garlic bulbs
For our autumn-planting garlic, the planting window is typically October to January, provided the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged. This gives the bulbs a strong headstart when the weather warms up in spring and a bountiful harvest in the summer.
How to store garlic bulbs
After harvesting, allow garlic bulbs to cure in a dry, airy place out of direct sunlight for two to three weeks. Once the skins are dry and papery, trim the roots and cut the stalks to about an inch above the bulb. Store the cured garlic in a cool, dark and well-ventilated area. Placing the bulbs in mesh bags can help maintain good airflow and prevent mould or rot, ensuring your garlic remains fresh for several months.
