Garlic thrives in full sun and organically amended, well-draining soil. Compost is essential, as garlic is a heavy feeder.
Hardneck Garlic
Hardneck or winter-hardy varieties are best planted mid to late October. They produce a central stalk and edible scapes, which should be removed to direct energy into bulb production.
Planting guidelines:
-
Break bulbs into cloves and leave skins intact
-
Plant 2 inches deep
-
Space 4–6 inches apart
-
Mulch lightly with straw to prevent heaving
Fertilize with a water-soluble fertilizer when shoots reach 6 inches tall.
Hardneck varieties mature in approximately 250–270 days and are prized for their unique flavor profiles.
Softneck Garlic
Softneck garlic is often planted in spring and is commonly found in grocery stores. It does not produce scapes and has smaller cloves clustered together.
Plant similarly to hardneck but without straw mulch. Fertilize when shoots are 6 inches tall.
Harvest and Storage
Both types are typically lifted in July. Cure by laying out or hanging from stems. Once tops turn yellow in about two weeks:
-
Trim stems
-
Store in a cool, dry place
Softneck garlic may store 6–9 months. Hardneck garlic typically contains 4–6 large cloves surrounding a central stem.
Growing Success Starts with Preparation
Healthy vegetables begin with healthy soil. Compost, balanced fertilizers such as 10-10-10, proper spacing, and consistent watering practices make all the difference. The Mill carries certified seed potatoes, asparagus crowns, onion sets, garlic, compost, fertilizers, and soil amendments to support every stage of the growing process.
From cool spring soil to midsummer harvest, every vegetable has its season. With the right timing and knowledge, gardeners can enjoy productive yields year after year.
For more expert advice, visit your local The Mill location or explore additional gardening resources at themillstores.com.
