Growing
In cooler climates, plant in winter, although some growers like to plant earlier to get some growth before the cold weather sets in, and some go a bit later in early spring. In warmer climates like Northern NSW, plant in March or early April.
Dig compost or well aged manure into the soil prior to planting.
Break garlic bulbs into cloves.
Plant each clove a few cm below surface in well draining raised beds. Space them 8-10 cm apart with the pointy end facing up.
Ensure ground is often moist (especially in spring).
Give the plants some fertilizer, 2 or 3 times throughout the growing season. Some young shoots can be cut off for a garnish. Some people even harvest young garlic and eat the ‘green’ garlic leaves and all.
Reduce water at end of Spring (4 weeks prior to harvesting).
Harvest garlic in summer, when plants turn 90% yellowy brown. Ease bulbs out with a fork, careful not to damage bulbs. If good weather. let them dry in the sun for a few days.
Hang to dry for 4 weeks in a warm place with good ventilation. Store in a cool airy place. This will prevent the bulbs from rotting.
