Garlic
Tamil Name: Poondu; Scientific Name: Allium sativum;
Planting/Sowing
Jun – Jul; Oct – Nov;
Harvesting
Nov – Dec;
Mar – Apr (following year);
First Harvest
~140 Days
General Info
| Crop category | Spice, Greens |
| Life span | Biennial |
| Type of crop | Herb |
| Part(s) of the crop to harvest | Root, Leaves |
| Avg. Height | 1 – 3 feet |
Climate & Humidity
Garlic prefers moderate temperature in summer as well as in winter. Short days are very favourable for the formation of bulbs. Prefers cool and moist climate.
Planting / Sowing
When to plant / sow seeds (ideal season):
June to July; October – November;
How to plant:
Direct Sowing: Select large, healthy cloves – the larger the clove, the bigger and healthier the bulb. Break apart cloves from the bulb a few days before planting, but keep the papery husk on each individual clove. Place cloves 2 to 4 inches apart and 2 inches deep, in their upright position (the wide root side facing down and pointed end facing up). Plant in rows spaced 10 to 14 inches apart.
NOTE: Onion shoots can be used as a flavourful fresh herb. Please refer to the How to Grow Greens and How to Grow Microgreens sections as Onions may also be harvested at the microgreen stage.
Soil Depth & Spacing Requirements
Plant cloves 2 inches deep and 2-4 inches apart.
NOTE: Please go through the Guides in the Knowledge Base for more details on topics ranging from Spacing & Lighting to Soil and Nutrients.
Irrigation
Water after sowing and depending upon the soil moisture availability. There should not be any scarcity of moisture in the growing season, otherwise, the development of the bulbs will be affected.
NOTE: Irrigation should depend on how moist / wet the soil is. Check your plants everyday to see if they require irrigation or not. Check the Watering & Irrigation guide for more info.
Pruning
As soon as the stalks emerge from the plants, clip the tops off . The stalks stop growing, and the underground garlic heads expand.
The tops may be used as greens – they contain a nice garlicky flavour and maybe used in stir fries, fried rice, soups and eggs.
NOTE: See the Pruning guide for general info.
Harvesting
When to harvest
Garlic bulbs are ready to harvest within 4-5 months of sowing depending on the variety. They are ready when the leaves start yellowing and become dry.
If harvesting for greens, snip as required.
How to harvest
Bulbs are to be pulled out, sheath cut near the bulb and roots are trimmed. They are then sun-dried for a week.
For greens snip with garden scissors.
NOTE: Harvest periods can vary depending on environmental, climatic, and soil conditions.
Pests & Diseases
| Pests | Thrips |
| Common Diseases/ Problems | White rot |
| Pest and Disease prevention measure(s) | Read Pest & Disease Control for more info. |
NOTE: Read Pest & Disease Control for more information.
Did you know?
If you have a lot of garlic to peel and want to do so quickly, these are the two easiest methods to try: [Learn How]
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