How to Plant Garlic in Pots Philippines

Garlic is one of the most commonly used ingredients in Filipino cuisine. It has a pungent flavor that adds depth to many dishes, and is also known for its health benefits. If you live in the Philippines and want to grow your own garlic, planting it in pots is a great option. Here's how to do it:

Choose the Right Pot

The first step in planting garlic is to choose the right pot. You want a pot that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the garlic bulbs, and has drainage holes on the bottom. If you're planting multiple bulbs, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter. You can use any material for the pot – plastic, clay, or ceramic – as long as it has drainage holes.

Choose the Best Garlic Bulbs

Next, you need to choose the best garlic bulbs for planting. You want bulbs that are firm and plump, with as many cloves as possible. Avoid bulbs that are soft, discolored, or moldy, as these may not sprout. If you're buying garlic bulbs from a store, choose bulbs that are labeled as "seed garlic." These are specifically cultivated for planting.

Prepare the Soil

Garlic prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, mix compost or aged manure into the soil to enrich it. You can also add a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, to provide nutrients for the garlic. Make sure the soil is loose and friable, so it will drain well and the garlic bulbs will be able to grow easily.

Plant the Garlic Bulbs

Plant the garlic bulbs in the pot with the pointed end facing up. The garlic cloves should be planted about 3 to 4 inches deep, and spaced about 6 inches apart. Cover the bulbs with soil and water gently. The soil should be moist, but not soaking wet. Place the pot in a sunny location where the garlic will get at least 6 hours of sun each day.

Care for the Garlic

Garlic doesn't need a lot of care, but there are a few things you can do to ensure a good harvest. Water the pot regularly to keep the soil moist, but be careful not to overwater. Garlic can rot if it sits in waterlogged soil. You can also add a layer of mulch on top of the soil to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Garlic doesn't require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give it a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer once a month. Be careful not to apply too much, as garlic is sensitive to excess fertilizer. If you notice any yellowing leaves, you can remove them to improve air circulation around the plant.

Harvest the Garlic

Garlic is ready to harvest when the leaves begin to turn yellow and wilt. This usually happens in late spring or early summer, depending on when you planted the bulbs. To harvest the garlic, dig up the entire plant and let it dry in a cool, dark place for two to three weeks. Once the garlic has dried, you can remove the dirt, trim the roots and leaves, and store the bulbs in a cool, dry place.

By following these simple steps, you can easily grow garlic in pots in the Philippines. Not only will you have a steady supply of fresh garlic for cooking, but you'll also enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own food.