27 December 2010

“Plant on the shortest day. Harvest on the longest day.” We’ve passed the shortest day, but not by much. Though it may be hard to find garlic at garden centers now, a quick Google search showed some availability. Or check with City Farmers Nursery here in San Diego. Alternatively, look for organic garlic at a farmer’s market or grocery store which will not be treated with growth retardants.

A bulb planter is a handy tool for planting garlic, especially the larger elephant garlic cloves. Absent the bulb planter, a favorite trowel will do. Separate the cloves for planting. A one hour pre-soak in water is optional. Plant the garlic cloves with root (blunt) end down, spacing 6 inches apart and elephant garlic 9 inches apart. Cover with about 2 inches of soil. Mulch lightly.  

I planted ‘Silver Rose’, a red variety and elephant garlic this year. A few shallots from the grocery store may also find their way to the garden. Some years I have saved garlic from the summer harvest to plant in the late fall.  More garlic growing tips as the season progresses.