Garlic plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of sunlight daily. Choose the sunniest spot in your garden or place your pot or planter in a location where it will receive ample sunlight.
Garlic prefers loose, well-draining soil, such as sandy clay loam. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-aged manure to enrich the soil. Adding a dose of lime or two tablespoons of 5-10-10 fertilizer, fish meal, or bone meal deep in the soil is also recommended.
Ensure garlic plants have enough space to grow by planting cloves 2 inches deep and a few inches apart. For larger bulbs, space them 6-12 inches apart. Rows of garlic should be spaced 12-18 inches apart. After planting, apply a light mulch over the cloves.
Water garlic plants regularly if there is insufficient rainfall, similar to other green plants in your garden. During warmer summer months, reduce watering as the bulbs grow.
Fertilize garlic plants in early spring when green shoots emerge, using organic fertilizer. Stop feeding once the bulbs start to form in late spring as they respond to longer days.
For optimal bulb growth, remove the flowering stems as they appear in spring and early summer. These small, tender shoots are not only beneficial to remove but are also delicious and edible.
Before storing, garlic requires curing and drying. Allow the bulbs to dry in a warm, dry area for several days. Then, remove the tops and roots.