Garlic cloves planted in a raised bed for a HIP Toolbox guide

How to Grow Garlic From Cloves

Difficulty 2/10
Time Seasonal
Tools dibber trowel compost gloves

Project Overview

Garlic is a low-effort crop if it is planted at the right time in free-draining soil. Autumn planting often gives stronger bulbs, but spring planting can still work.

Safety Note

Plant only garlic intended for growing, not supermarket bulbs that may be unsuitable or treated. Garlic can be harmful to pets, so store spare cloves safely.

What You Need

  • Seed garlic bulbs
  • Dibber or trowel
  • Compost or soil improver
  • Gloves
  • Plant labels if using several varieties

Method

  1. Break bulbs into individual cloves just before planting.
  2. Plant cloves pointed end up, spaced apart in rows.
  3. Cover with soil so the tip is just below the surface.
  4. Keep weed-free and water during dry spells.
  5. Harvest when leaves yellow and begin to fold.

Common Mistakes

Planting in heavy wet soil can rot cloves. Planting too close together gives smaller bulbs.

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