Soil requirements
- Do not plant in a soggy closed-bottom bed. Rot is the winter killer.
Watering
- Winter precipitation often does the work. In dry Western winters, occasional water may be needed if the bed is bone dry.
- Stop heavy watering when leaves yellow in early summer.
Sunlight
Full sun in spring. It can share a bed that will later hold tomatoes after harvest.
Planting
- Break bulbs into cloves just before planting. Softneck vs hardneck is a climate and kitchen choice.
- Mulch after the ground cools. Pull mulch back in spring if it stays too wet.
Spacing
- 4–6 inches in the row, 8–12 inches between rows if you use rows.
Common problems
Rot
Poor drainage or planting grocery garlic treated to not sprout well.
Small bulbs
Late planting, crowding, or stopping water too early in spring.
Helpful tools
- Mulch
- A dry, airy place to cure
Product links will be added when independently researched. See the garden tools hub for buying criteria.
Frequently asked questions
Can I plant grocery-store garlic?
Sometimes. It may be a type unsuited to your climate or treated against sprouting. Seed garlic from a grower is the more reliable path.