How to Plant Sprouted Garlic

Garlic is not only a versatile ingredient in cooking but also a potent natural remedy. It is easy to grow and harvest garlic, and it is a rewarding experience to watch your garlic bulbs mature from sprouts to full-grown bulbs. Sprouted garlic cloves are especially great to plant because they will sprout quicker than un-sprouted cloves. Here's how to plant sprouted garlic.

Preparing the Soil

The first step in planting sprouted garlic is preparing the soil. Choose a sunny and well-draining area in your garden or balcony where the garlic can get enough sunlight. Garlic needs fertile soil to grow well, so amend the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as garlic does not like sitting in water.

Separating the Cloves

Separate the sprouted cloves from the garlic bulb, gently pressing the cloves into the soil with their pointy ends up. Make sure that there is at least two inches of space between the cloves to give them enough room to grow. Plant each clove two inches deep and cover with soil.

Tip: To speed up the sprouting process, soak the garlic cloves in water for a few hours before planting.

Watering the Garlic

Water the garlic well after planting and continue to water it regularly, especially during dry spells. Garlic requires one inch of water per week, and it is crucial to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. When watering, aim for the soil instead of the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

Mulching the Garlic

After planting, mulch the garlic with a layer of organic matter like straw, leaves, or grass clippings. Mulching will help to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. It also protects the garlic bulbs from extreme temperature fluctuations. Ensure that the mulch layer is not too thick, as this can create a moist environment that attracts pests and diseases.

Harvesting the Garlic

Garlic takes approximately six to eight months to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions. As the garlic bulbs grow, you will notice that the leaves start to brown and wilt. This is a sign that the garlic is ready to harvest. Gently dig up the bulbs with a fork or shovel, taking care not to damage them. Brush off any excess soil and hang the bulbs in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place to cure for two to three weeks.

In conclusion, planting sprouted garlic is a simple and rewarding experience that anyone can do. Look for sprouted garlic at your local farmers market or grocery store and get started today! Happy planting and harvesting!