Successful garlic cultivation begins well before the clove is placed in the ground, relying heavily on proper preparation of the planting material. Garlic, unlike most garden vegetables, is not grown from a true seed but is propagated vegetatively using individual cloves, which are clones of the parent bulb. Focusing on specific pre-planting steps will maximize the chances of a healthy plant, leading to a larger final bulb size and a successful harvest. These preparation methods are straightforward but have a significant impact on the plant’s initial growth and resistance to common pests and diseases.
Choosing Quality Seed Garlic
The first step in preparation involves selecting the correct planting stock. It is highly recommended to source certified seed garlic from a reputable grower rather than using bulbs purchased from a grocery store. Grocery store garlic may be treated with sprout inhibitors to extend shelf life or could carry diseases that might contaminate your garden soil.
Selecting the correct type is also important, as garlic is broadly divided into two groups: hardneck and softneck varieties. Hardneck garlic is better suited for colder climates due to its need for a cold period, or vernalization, to form a bulb. Softneck varieties are more adaptable to warmer regions and are often preferred for their longer storage life and flexible necks that allow for braiding.
Regardless of the type, inspect each bulb carefully for firmness, ensuring the papery wrapper remains intact. The bulbs should be free of soft spots, mold, or any signs of damage or disease.
Separating Cloves for Planting
The next mechanical step is “cracking” the bulb. This process should be done with care to avoid damaging the basal plate, which is the flat, bottom part of the clove where the roots will emerge. A damaged basal plate can render the clove unusable for planting, as it will be unable to establish a robust root system.
The primary goal during separation is to select only the largest and healthiest outer cloves for planting. Large cloves have more stored energy, which directly correlates with the size of the bulb they will ultimately produce. Smaller inner cloves should be set aside for culinary use or for planting densely to harvest as “garlic scallions” or green garlic.
When cracking the bulb, keep the protective papery skin, or wrapper, on the individual clove whenever possible. This wrapper provides a layer of insulation and protection against soil-borne pathogens and moisture loss after planting. Softneck varieties are generally easier to separate than hardneck types, which possess a stiff central stem that requires a bit more effort to pull apart.
Pre-Planting Soaks and Treatments
Treatments can be applied to the separated cloves to enhance hydration and provide protection against certain pests and fungi. A simple hydration soak involves submerging the cloves in plain water for up to 16 hours, which helps rehydrate the planting material and can encourage faster root development.
To reduce the risk of fungal diseases and pests like mites, a disinfectant soak is often recommended. One common method uses a dilute solution of hydrogen peroxide, typically mixing one part of 3% hydrogen peroxide with three parts of water, for a soak lasting about 15 minutes. Alternatively, some growers use a solution containing baking soda and liquid seaweed to help combat surface molds and provide trace nutrients.
Another method involves a hot water treatment, where cloves are soaked for 20 minutes in water maintained at a temperature of around 120°F (48.5°C) to target stem and bulb nematodes. It is important to maintain the correct temperature and duration, as insufficient heat is ineffective, and excessive heat can damage the cloves. Following any soak, the cloves should be planted immediately or allowed to dry for a few hours before planting.
Timing Preparation Relative to Planting Date
Cloves should be separated from the main bulb no earlier than one or two days before the intended planting date. Once separated from the basal plate of the whole bulb, the individual cloves begin to deteriorate and are susceptible to drying out.
This brief window prevents the cloves from losing excessive moisture, a process known as desiccation, which can significantly reduce their ability to sprout successfully. Any pre-planting soaks, whether for hydration or disinfection, should also be performed immediately before planting. Soaking too far in advance can lead to premature sprouting, which can negatively affect the plant’s performance once in the soil.
Garlic is traditionally planted in the fall, approximately two to three weeks after the first light frost but before the ground freezes solid. This timing allows the cloves to develop a strong root system before the onset of winter dormancy. By keeping the preparation of cracking and soaking close to the actual planting time, you ensure the cloves are in the best possible condition to establish roots quickly.