When to Plant Garlic in Seattle: A Guide to Growing Garlic in the Pacific Northwest

Getting Started with Garlic

Garlic is a delicious and healthy addition to any kitchen garden, and it's easy to grow in the Pacific Northwest. To get started, you'll need to choose a variety of garlic that's well-suited to our climate. Softneck varieties are the most common type of garlic grown in the Northwest, but you can also grow hardneck varieties if you prefer.

Choosing the Right Time to Plant

The best time to plant garlic in Seattle is in the fall, typically between October and November. This gives the garlic enough time to establish roots before the ground freezes. Planting too early can result in the garlic sprouting before winter, while planting too late can leave the garlic struggling to grow in cold, wet soil.

Preparing Your Soil

Garlic prefers well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter, so it's important to prepare your soil before planting. Start by clearing any weeds and debris from the planting area, and then add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure to the soil. You can also add a balanced fertilizer for an extra boost of nutrients.

Planting Your Garlic

To plant garlic, break apart the garlic cloves from the bulb and plant them about 4 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up. Space the cloves about 6 inches apart, and cover them with soil. Water the garlic well after planting, and then add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Caring for Your Garlic Plants

Garlic is a relatively low-maintenance crop, but it does require regular watering and a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer. You can also remove any flower stalks that develop to encourage the garlic to focus its energy on developing larger bulbs.

Harvesting Your Garlic

Your garlic should be ready to harvest in the summer, typically in July or August. Look for the leaves to turn yellow and start to dry out, and then gently dig up the bulbs. Allow the garlic to dry in a cool, dry place for a few weeks before using or storing.

Conclusion

Growing garlic in Seattle is a rewarding and easy way to add a tasty ingredient to your meals. With a little preparation and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, homegrown garlic. Just remember to choose the right garlic variety, plant at the right time, and care for your plants throughout the growing season. Happy gardening!