Can I Plant Store Bought Garlic?

Introduction

Garlic is a nutritious and flavorful herb that is used in various cuisines around the world. Many people grow their own garlic at home, but some prefer to buy it from stores. If you have recently purchased some garlic from a store and are wondering if you can plant it, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will answer some common questions about planting store-bought garlic.

Can Store Bought Garlic be Planted?

The short answer is yes; you can plant store-bought garlic. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, not all store-bought garlic is suitable for planting. Some garlic is treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting, so it will not grow if you plant it. It is therefore essential to choose garlic that is labeled as suitable for planting. Secondly, the quality of store-bought garlic can vary significantly. If you want your garlic to grow healthy and produce good bulbs, you need to choose high-quality seeds.

How to Plant Store Bought Garlic

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant store-bought garlic:

Choose a location: Garlic prefers well-draining soil and full sun. Choose a spot in your garden that receives several hours of sunlight every day and has well-draining soil.

Prepare the soil: Garlic prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its quality.

Break apart the cloves: Separate the cloves from the bulb and choose the largest ones for planting. Do not remove the papery skin that covers the cloves.

Plant the cloves: Push each clove into the soil with the pointed side up, making sure the tip is about 1-2 inches below the surface. Space them about 4-6 inches apart, and cover them with soil.

Water and mulch: Give your garlic plants a thorough watering after planting. You can also mulch the area around the plants with straw or leaves to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Care for your plants: Garlic needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Consider watering your plants every few days, especially during dry spells. You should also fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and early summer.

Harvest: Garlic is typically ready to harvest in mid-summer when the leaves begin to turn brown. Carefully dig up the bulbs, brush off any dirt, and let them dry in a warm, dry place for a few weeks. Once the bulbs are dry, you can store them in a cool, dark place until ready to use.

Conclusion

Planting store-bought garlic is not only possible but also relatively easy. However, it is essential to choose high-quality seeds and ensure that they are labeled as suitable for planting. By following the steps outlined above, you can grow your own healthy and flavorful garlic in your backyard garden.