Step 4: Watering and Care
1. Watering Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Garlic needs regular watering, especially during dry periods, but be careful to avoid overwatering.
2. Weeding Keep the planting area free of weeds, which can compete with the garlic for nutrients and water. Mulch helps reduce the need for frequent weeding.
3. Fertilizing Feed your garlic with a balanced fertilizer or compost tea during the growing season to support healthy growth.
Step 5: Harvesting and Storing
1. Harvest Time Garlic is ready to harvest when the lower leaves turn brown and start to die back, typically in late spring to early summer. Carefully lift the bulbs out of the soil with a garden fork.
2. Curing After harvesting, cure the garlic by laying the bulbs out in a single layer in a dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Allow them to cure for 2-3 weeks until the skins are papery and the bulbs are fully dry.
3. Storing Once cured, trim the roots and cut the stalks to about an inch above the bulb. Store the garlic in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a mesh bag or basket.
Growing garlic is a simple and satisfying project. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying fresh, flavorful garlic from your own garden. Happy planting!
