How to Plant Garlic That Has Sprouted

Garlic is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. If you've found some garlic in your pantry that has sprouted, don't throw it away! Sprouted garlic can actually be planted and grown into a whole new bulb. In this article, we'll show you how to plant garlic that has sprouted and give you some tips for growing healthy, flavorful garlic.

Preparing Your Garlic

The first step in planting garlic that has sprouted is to prepare the cloves. Carefully separate the cloves from the bulb, keeping the papery skin intact. Then, take a close look at each clove. You should see a white shoot emerging from the top of the clove. This shoot is the garlic's sprout, and it will eventually become the green leaves that grow above ground.

Planting Your Garlic

Once you've prepared your garlic cloves, it's time to plant them. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Garlic likes fertile soil, so consider adding some compost or other organic matter to your planting area.

Plant your garlic cloves about 2-3 inches deep, with the sprout facing up. Space them about 6-8 inches apart, and cover them with soil. Water your garlic well, and continue to water it regularly throughout the growing season.

Caring for Your Garlic

Garlic is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few things you can do to promote healthy growth. First, make sure your garlic gets enough sunlight. This is especially important in the early stages of growth, as the shoot needs sunlight to develop into a healthy plant.

You should also keep your garlic weed-free. Weeds can compete with your garlic for nutrients and water, which can stunt its growth. Consider using a layer of mulch to help suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil.

Finally, be patient! Garlic takes several months to mature, so don't expect a harvest right away. Your garlic will be ready to harvest when the leaves start to turn yellow and dry out. Gently dig up the bulbs and shake off any excess soil. Store your garlic in a cool, dry place for several weeks to allow it to cure.

Conclusion

Planting garlic that has sprouted is a great way to make use of an ingredient that might otherwise go to waste. By following these simple steps, you can grow your own healthy, flavorful garlic. Just remember to choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, plant your cloves with the sprout facing up, and give your garlic plenty of time to mature. Soon enough, you'll have a bountiful harvest of delicious garlic to use in your favorite recipes.