Garlic Planting Guide

Garlic Planting Guide

Each set (bulb) is made up of several sections called cloves, held together by a thin, papery covering. Before planting, break cloves apart.

Fall planting: Plant cloves in mid-autumn about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes in a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. Set cloves root side down 4–6" apart in rows 1 1/2–2' apart, and cover with 4" of good soil. In the North, put down 6" of mulch for winter protection. Garlic may begin growth late in fall or early in spring.

Spring planting: Plant cloves as early in spring as soil can be worked, about the same time as onion sets. Spring planted garlic should be put in the ground in the same manner as in the fall.

Harvesting and storage: In late summer, bend over tops to hasten yellowing and drying of tops. Pull up the plants and allow to dry in the sun a few hours. Spread out in a well-ventilated place until tops are thoroughly dry (2–3 weeks). Cut tops off 1–2" above bulbs, or braid tops together into strings. Store loose bulbs in a dry, cool, airy place in baskets; hang garlic strings.

Little Farm Market-Wild Bird Store

516 C Street NE

Brainerd, MN 56401

218-829-5436