01 · Timing

When and how to begin

Plant healthy cloves at the season recommended locally, often in fall in cold-winter regions, with the pointed end up.

02 · Growing sequence

See the crop change before it happens.

Illustrated growth sequence for garlic, from establishment through mature harvest.
  1. 01Select locally appropriate hardneck or softneck stock.
  2. 02Mulch where winter protection is useful.
  3. 03Keep spring growth evenly moist.
  4. 04Stop waiting once protective bulb wrappers begin to disappear.

03 · Below the surface

Give the roots their working volume.

Planting geometryDepth, roots, and final space
4–6 in final spacing
2–3 in

A compact bulb and shallow roots need drainage, winter protection where appropriate, and restrained cultivation.

04 · Harvest

Know when it is ready

Visual decisionRead the plant, not only the date
Illustrated growth sequence for garlic, from establishment through mature harvest.
Not yet

Still developing

Illustrated growth sequence for garlic, from establishment through mature harvest.
Ready

Lift when several lower leaves have browned but upper leaves still retain green; cure in shade with airflow.

Illustrated growth sequence for garlic, from establishment through mature harvest.
Past prime

Quality or vigor may decline when harvest is delayed beyond the intended stage.

05 · Common trouble

Inspect before you treat

Bulb rotOnion thripsSmall bulbs

Symptoms can share several causes. Check moisture, recent weather, and the complete plant before applying a treatment.

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