How to Plant Garlic in Ohio

Garlic is a popular vegetable used in many dishes worldwide. It is relatively easy to grow in Ohio, regardless of whether you have a small garden or a large farm. In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive details on how to plant garlic in Ohio, from selecting the right garlic variety to harvesting your crop.

Selecting the Right Garlic Variety

Before planting garlic in Ohio, it is crucial to choose the right garlic variety to ensure maximum yield. There are two main types: hardneck and softneck garlic. Hardneck garlic produces a flower stalk, while softneck garlic does not. In Ohio, hardneck garlic grows better because of the colder climate.

The commonly grown hardneck garlic varieties in Ohio include German White, Music, and Russian Red. These varieties produce medium to large bulbs, which are ideal for cooking. They also mature in the fall, making them perfect for planting in the fall season.

Preparing the Soil

Garlic requires fertile, well-drained soil to grow optimally. Before planting, it is essential to prepare your soil by breaking up any clods and adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure. If you have heavy clay soil, adding sand to the garden bed can help to improve drainage.

Garlic likes soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can determine your soil pH by performing a soil test. If the soil pH is too low, you can add lime to raise it. On the other hand, if the soil pH is too high, you can add sulfur to lower it.

Planting Garlic

Planting garlic in Ohio is best done in the fall, from the end of September to mid-October. Planting during this time allows the garlic cloves to develop a root system and gain enough energy to sprout in the spring.

First, separate individual cloves from the garlic bulb. Choose the largest cloves; these will yield the largest garlic bulbs. Plant each clove about two inches deep and six inches apart, spacing the rows ten inches apart.

Cover the cloves with soil, and add a layer of organic mulch such as straw or dry leaves. Mulching helps to retain moisture in the soil and to prevent weeds from sprouting. It also insulates the garlic during the winter season.

Caring for Garlic Plants

Garlic requires minimal maintenance throughout its growth. Water the garlic plants regularly during dry spells. Be careful not to overwater, as garlic bulbs can easily rot in waterlogged soil.

Fertilize the garlic plants with a balanced fertilizer once in the fall and another in early spring. This provides the plants with the necessary nutrients to grow and develop strong root systems.

Harvesting Garlic

Garlic is usually ready for harvest in the summer, from June to August. Wait until the lower leaves of the garlic plants start to yellow and wither before harvesting. Carefully dig up the garlic bulbs with a garden fork and leave them to dry in the sun for a few days.

Once the garlic bulbs are dry, remove any residual soil and trim the roots and stems. Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. The bulbs should last up to six months if stored correctly.

Conclusion

Growing garlic in Ohio is an easy and rewarding experience. Remember to choose the right garlic variety, prepare your soil, plant the cloves in the fall, and care for the plants by watering and fertilizing. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a bountiful garlic harvest in the summer.