How Deep to Plant Garlic Bulbs

Garlic is full of flavor and may be grown in the garden.

Garlic bulbs are planted in fall and produce plants the following spring. The depth at which the bulbs should be planted depends on the typical winter conditions in the region in which garlic is being grown.

When to Plant

Plant garlic bulbs after the first frost. Garlic can also be planted in late winter, once the ground has thawed. Late winter garlic plants, however, are not as large or sturdy as those that have had a chance to develop a strong root structure over winter.

Soil Preparation

Garlic prefers a soil pH of 6.5 to 7.0. Adding wood ash to acidic soil can help balance the pH. Garlic does best in rich, sandy loam that is tilled deep and is well-drained. Loosen soil up to 12 inches deep.

Planting

Every bulb has several cloves, each of which may become a separate garlic plant. Where winters are mild, push garlic bulbs 1 to 2 inches deep. Plant them 2 to 4 inches deep where winters are severe. Garlic should be planted about 6 inches apart in rows spaced about 3 feet apart. Be sure to plant them with the pointed tip facing up.

References

• New Mexico State University: Fall Time to Plant Garlic
• National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service: Garlic: Organic Production
• Mother Earth News: Growing Garlic