Gulf Coast Garlic?

There are hundreds of varieties of garlic. Several companies that specialize in mail order seed garlic and offer a wide selection. For the beginning garlic grower, it is best to get your seed stock from local sources. Some recommended varieties include ‘Creole’, ‘Italian”, and ‘Elephant’.

Timing of garlic planting is important. In Mississippi, mid- September through October have been shown to be the best planting period. This timing allows for good root growth and some top growth. Planting too early may lead to too much tender top growth by winter; a later date may not allow adequate root development.

Soil requirements for garlic include moderate organic matter levels with good drainage. A waterlogged soil will cause cloves to rot. Prior to planting apply 3 cups /100ft² of 13-13-13. Composted organic matter should be added when possible. During the spring, one to two light side-dressings of ammonium nitrate at 1/4 cup/100 ft² will promote vigorous and uniform growth. Most small-scale garlic growers utilize raised beds, especially if soils are heavy or poorly drained like those found in many areas of the Delta.

When planting, separate individual cloves from the main bulb and plant them about 4"-6" apart in the row. Generally, the larger the clove planted, the larger the bulb will be at harvest. On a raised bed, several rows can be planted, with each row 12-18" apart. Cloves should be set with tip up, and 1-2" below the soil surface.

Garlic is a poor competitor with weeds, so good weed control is essential. Fall weed problems will be usually be minor, but spring and early summer weeds will need to be controlled. Mulch the soil with straw or other organic materials after planting to provide weed control.

Harvest garlic before tops completely die down, preferably with 4-6 green leaves still attached. Remove excess soil, but do not wash. Lay whole plants on screens or hang in small bunches to dry. Allow it to cure completely in a well-ventilated room, out of the direct sunlight. Curing will take about 4-6 weeks to cure the bulbs. After curing, roots and tops can be trimmed, and outer dirty skins removed. Bulbs of similar size with stems can be braided into strings (20-25 bulbs/string) and hung as decorations. Cured garlic stores best in a cool, dry place. Curing and some storage will bring out the individual variety flavors.