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Garlic grows best in cool to mild temperatures. If you’re in a warmer climate, you might need to place the pot in a shadier spot during hot summer months to protect the plant from too much heat. Conversely, garlic also does well in cooler climates where the temperatures range from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C).
3. Mulch for Winter
If you’re growing garlic in a colder climate, cover the top of the soil with a light layer of mulch to protect the cloves from frost. In the spring, remove the mulch as temperatures warm up.
4. Fertilizing
If you want a larger harvest, you can add organic fertilizer to the potting soil a few times throughout the growing season—just follow the directions on the label for best results.
🌾 Harvesting Your Garlic
Patience is key! Garlic typically takes about 8–9 months to mature, depending on the variety and your growing conditions. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to harvest:
- Yellowing leaves: As the plant matures, the leaves will begin to yellow and die back.
- Bulb size: Gently check the size of the bulbs by tugging on the plant (or feel through the pot). When the bulbs are firm and the leaves are almost dead, it’s time to harvest.
To harvest, gently pull up the garlic bulbs from the pot, being careful not to damage the bulbs. Shake off the excess dirt and let them dry in a warm, dry spot for a few weeks. Once they’re fully cured, store them in a cool, dry place.
🌿 Tips for Growing Garlic Year After Year
- Save your best bulbs: After your garlic is harvested, save a few of the best bulbs and replant them the following season for a continual harvest.
- Rotate your containers: If you’re planting garlic in multiple pots, rotate them each season to prevent nutrient depletion and ensure healthier growth.
- Garlic greens: You can also harvest the green shoots (called scapes) of hardneck garlic for an extra fresh garlic flavor in your dishes. These shoots are great for garnishing or making garlic pesto!
🌟 Final Thoughts: Garlic That Grows Forever!
Once you learn the ropes of growing garlic in a pot, you’ll be able to harvest fresh, flavorful garlic year after year with little effort. It’s a sustainable way to enjoy homegrown produce and add a dash of flavor to your dishes — and the best part? You’ll only need to plant once, and your garlic will keep producing.
So, grab your pot, some garlic cloves, and get growing — your homegrown garlic is waiting!
Want more tips on growing your own food in small spaces? Let me know, and I’ll be happy to share more gardening secrets! 🌿👩🌾
