Share
Garlic is an important pillar of Indian cuisine. Garlic which adds flavour to a wide variety of curries and chutneys. It is essential in the kitchen because of the way its perfume enhances the flavour of food. Garlic is well-known for its antimicrobial and antiviral qualities in addition to its gastronomic value. Given its widespread use and health perks, growing garlic at home ensures a fresh and readily available supply.
Growing garlic in containers is surprisingly simple, making it accessible even for those with limited space. Whether on a balcony or a small patio, cultivating garlic in pots offers convenience without compromising yield. With minimal effort and space, anyone can enjoy home-grown garlic year-round. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to growing garlic in containers, ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Growing Garlic In A Container
1. Prepare The Ground
Sunlight and Soil: Garlic thrives in an open, sunny position with well-drained soil. Enhance the soil quality by adding garden compost or well-rotted manure. For heavy clay soils, incorporate grit or opt for container planting to improve drainage. Plant garlic between other crops to maximise garden space and deter pests with its pungent scent.
2. Plant The Bulbs
Breaking and Spacing: Break the garlic bulbs into individual cloves before planting. Each clove should be placed 10 to 15 cm apart, with rows spaced 30 cm apart. For container planting, use a 9 cm pot for each clove. Ensure the clove points upwards with the tip visible above the soil. Water the cloves post-planting to help the soil settle around them.
3. Cover The Bulbs As They Grow
Protection from Birds: Use horticultural fleece or cloches to protect young seedlings from birds. As the plants grow, they become less appealing to birds, and the protection can be removed. Continue to water the garlic bulbs as they develop. Once the bulb forms, cease watering to prevent rotting.
4. Cut Off The Scape
Encouraging Bulb Growth: Removing the scape directs energy to the bulb, enhancing its size by up to 20%. If you wish to use garlic flowers for their mild flavour in salads and sauces, you can skip this step. Otherwise, it’s best to remove the flower before it fully develops to ensure larger bulbs.
5. Harvesting The Garlic
When To Harvest: Harvest garlic when some leaves have yellowed, and the bulb is well-developed. This usually occurs between early June and late August. Harvest on a warm, sunny day to allow the bulbs to dry on the bed. Avoid leaving bulbs in the ground too long to prevent rotting.
Harvesting Technique: Check around the bulb with your fingers or a trowel. Use a trowel or knife to cut some roots and gently lift the plant without snapping the stem. Brush off soil and trim roots. Dry the bulbs thoroughly in a cool, dry place with good airflow, avoiding intense sun.
How Long Does It Take to Grow?
Garlic typically takes about 10 months from planting to harvest. If planted in autumn, expect to harvest between early June and late July.
How Should You Store It?
Store garlic in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry, in a mesh bag or hanging. Avoid refrigeration, as cold stimulates sprouting. Use damaged bulbs immediately. Save a few bulbs for the next planting season if possible.
Growing garlic in containers is a straightforward process that yields rewarding results. With proper preparation, planting, and care, anyone can enjoy fresh, home-grown garlic. Follow these steps to ensure a successful garlic harvest, enhancing your kitchen's flavours and your garden's productivity.
