Allium sativum or garlic is a member of the onion family of plants. It is also closely related to leeks, shallots and chives. Originally native to central Asia, garlic has become a staple for both culinary and medicinal purposes, particularly in Mediterranean countries. Garlic is very easy to grow and will grow all-year-round in very mild climates. Here is a short guide on how to plant garlic and some of the best varieties to grow.
When you buy garlic it is best to buy bulbs from seed merchants as they will be guaranteed virus-free and bred for growing in local conditions. The best time to plant garlic is mid-winter to ensure a good harvest the following summer. To begin with, break the garlic bulb into individual cloves ready for planting. Depending on the climate where you live, you can either plant the cloves directly into the soil where the climate is mild, or in colder climates, plant into seed trays to speed up growth and place in a cold greenhouse or cold frame. Cloves planted in seed trays will be ready to plant outside in March or April. When planting directly into the ground, prepare the soil by raking to a fine tilth. Then space the cloves about 10cm apart and push gently into the ground so that the tip of the clove is just below the surface. If the weather turns frosty, cover them with a cloche to protect them. Make sure to keep the plants well watered during dry spells, as lack of water will mean the bulbs do not swell and also won't store very well.
Varieties of garlic
'Picardy Wight' originates from Northern France and is suitable for spring or autumn planting. It produces strong flavoured bulbs with a long storage life. Elephant garlic is another spring planting variety. It is not a true garlic, but known as a stem leek and has large bulbs 10cm in diameter with a mild taste. 'Lautrec Wight' originates from south west France and is an autumn planting variety. It has pretty bulbs with a white outer skin and pink cloves. 'Early Purple Wight' is also an autumn planting variety which can be harvested from May onwards. However, it needs to be used soon after harvesting as it does not store well over a long period. 'Edenrose' produces excellent bulbs with attractive pink cloves. It is a favourite variety in France, known for its delicate flavour.
Garlic is excellent for growing in garden planters. Make sure you choose a deep pot as garlic can be quite deep-rooted. Plant the cloves in mid-October to harvest between August and September. Place the container in a sunny position and out of the way of cold winds.
Jo Poultney is one of two people behind Garden Planters. I have an RHS general certificate in horticulture. Garden Planters source unusual outdoor and indoor planters, and other garden related gifts - whatever your taste, be it traditional, modern or just a bit quirky, we will have something for you. I believe garden planters are an integral part of any garden - they enhance the overall design and say a little something about the person to whom the garden belongs. If you would like to know more about Garden Planters, visit our website at http://www.gardenplantersshop.co.uk
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