What Size Pot for Garlic Plant?

Garlic is one of the easiest plants to grow in a container for a home gardener. Not only does it save space, but it also allows you to control the environment of the plant. The key to a healthy garlic plant is selecting the right pot size. So, what size pot for garlic plant is best?

The Best Pot Size for Garlic Plant

To grow garlic in pots, you need a container with a depth of at least 6 inches and a width of 8 inches. Ideally, the pot should be 12 inches in both depth and width to allow ample room for the roots to develop.

It's essential to choose a container with good drainage as garlic doesn't like to sit in water. You can use a plastic, clay or terracotta pot with drainage holes at the bottom.

A larger pot will hold more soil and therefore, will require less frequent watering. This will be beneficial if you live in a dry climate or if your plant receives a lot of sunlight.

How to Plant Garlic in a Pot

Before planting, select a location that receives a full sun. Garlic performs best in fertile soil with good drainage. Fill the pot with a nutrient-rich potting mix, ensuring that the soil is loose and well-drained.

Next, break apart the garlic bulb and select the healthiest cloves. Plant the cloves 2 inches deep, ensuring there is 4 inches of spacing between each clove.

Water thoroughly after planting, but avoid overwatering the plant. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to touch.

How to Care for Garlic Plant in a Pot

Garlic requires consistent care to grow strong and healthy in a pot. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Watering: Garlic plants don't like wet feet, so avoid overwatering. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to touch.

Fertilizing: Garlic is a light feeder, and it doesn't require regular fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer when planting to ensure a consistent supply of nutrients.

Pruning: Garlic doesn't require pruning, but you can remove the scapes when they appear. Scapes are the curly stems that appear at the top of the garlic plant. By removing the scapes, you will allow the plant to channel more energy into bulb production.

Harvesting: Garlic is ready to harvest when the tops turn yellow or brown. Carefully dig up the bulbs with a spade, brush off the soil and hang them to dry for a few weeks.

Conclusion

When it comes to selecting the right pot size for garlic plant, always choose a container that's deep enough to allow the roots to develop but not too deep that the soil becomes soggy. With proper care and maintenance, you can grow healthy and flavorful garlic in a pot before you know it. Happy planting!