When to Plant Garlic in Spring

Garlic is a popular crop that is commonly planted in the fall for a summer harvest. However, if you miss the fall planting season, you can still plant garlic in the spring. But when is the best time to plant garlic in the spring? In this article, we will discuss the ideal time to plant garlic in the spring and some tips to ensure a successful crop.

When to Plant Garlic in the Spring

The ideal time to plant garlic in the spring is when the soil has thawed and is workable. This is usually around mid to late April, depending on your location. It is important to plant garlic in the spring as soon as the soil is workable to allow the bulbs to establish roots before the hot summer months.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting garlic in the spring, it is important to prepare the soil properly. Garlic requires well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and provide nutrients for the plants. Avoid planting garlic in soil that has been recently fertilized with nitrogen as this can cause the bulbs to grow too fast and result in poor quality bulbs.

Planting Garlic

When planting garlic in the spring, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, select healthy cloves from the bulbs and separate them. Aim to plant the larger cloves as they will produce larger bulbs. Next, plant the cloves 2-3 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Make sure the pointed end of the clove is facing up and the flat end is facing down.

Caring for Garlic

After planting garlic in the spring, it is important to provide proper care to ensure a successful crop. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Mulch around the plants with an organic material such as straw to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again when the plants begin to form bulbs.

Harvesting Garlic

Garlic planted in the spring will be ready to harvest in late summer or early fall, depending on the variety. The garlic bulbs are mature and ready to harvest when the foliage begins to yellow and die back. Carefully dig up the bulbs, being careful not to bruise or damage them. Allow the bulbs to dry in a warm, dry location for several weeks before cleaning and storing.

In conclusion, planting garlic in the spring is a great way to enjoy a fresh harvest of this flavorful crop. Remember to plant garlic when the soil is workable, prepare the soil properly, plant the cloves with the pointed end up, and provide proper care throughout the growing season. With these tips, you can enjoy a successful garlic crop in your spring garden.