Garlic - Allium sativum - 25 cloves p-pack

Planting Method:

• Separate cloves and plant them pointed side up.

• Depth: 2—5 cm deep (deeper in sandy soils, shallower in clay).

• Spacing: 10—15 cm apart, rows 25—30 cm apart.

Container Growing:

• Use deep pots (at least 20 cm deep) with good drainage.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

• Reduce watering as bulbs mature (last 3—4 weeks before harvest).

Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply compost or aged manure for organic nutrients.

• During growth: Feed with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 3—4 weeks.

• Avoid excess nitrogen late in the season, as it promotes leaf growth instead of bulbs.

Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of mulch (straw, leaves, or grass clippings) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Growth Stages & Maintenance

Leaf Growth (Autumn—Winter):

• Garlic produces strong green leaves before forming bulbs.

Bulbing (Spring):

• Bulbs start forming as temperatures rise.

• Reduce watering at this stage.

Harvesting (Late Spring—Early Summer):

• Ready to harvest when leaves turn yellow and dry out (October—December).

• Gently dig up bulbs and cure in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated area for 2—4 weeks.

5. Pests & Diseases

Common Pests:

• Aphids & Thrips — Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Cutworms & Nematodes — Rotate crops to reduce soil pests.

Disease Issues:

• White Rot (Fungal Rot): Avoid planting garlic in the same area every year.

• Rust & Downy Mildew: Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.

7. Companion Planting

• Grows well with carrots, lettuce, beetroot, spinach, and tomatoes.

• Repels aphids, slugs, and snails.

• Avoid planting near peas and beans (stunts their growth).

8. Storage & Use

Storage:

• Keep cured garlic in a cool, dry, dark place.

• Ideal temperature: 10—15°C.

• Avoid refrigeration, as it causes sprouting.

Uses:

• Culinary (fresh or dried).

• Medicinal (antibacterial, antiviral).

• Natural pesticide (garlic spray for plants).

Conclusion

Garlic is an easy, rewarding crop for South African growers, needing cool winters, well-draining soil, and consistent care. With the right planting and harvesting techniques, you can enjoy flavorful, homegrown garlic every season!