How to Plant Garlic in the Northwest

An ideal time to plant garlic in the Northwest is in the fall. Garlic is a cool-weather crop and will develop its leaves in early spring. A fall planting will give ample time for the plant to develop these leaves. Hardy foliage is an important part of the garlic plant. Once the garlic bulb begins to grow the leaves will stop growing. Garlic should be planted in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6 and 7. According to Washington State University you can purchase garlic bulbs at a nursery or use garlic cloves from a bulb purchased at a grocery store.

Organic matter
Garden rake
10-10-10 fertilizer
Small garden shovel
Garlic bulb
Watering can or hose

Instructions

- 1
  Work organic matter down into the soil using a garden rake. The amount you use will depend on the size of your growing area. Use enough that when finished the majority of soil is organic matter.
- 2
  Add a 10-10-10 fertilizer to the soil following the manufacturer's directions. Mary Robson, a representative of Washington State University, suggests using 3 pounds for every 100 square feet of planting area.
- 3
  Break apart the garlic bulb. Only use the outer cloves of garlic for planting.
- 4
  Dig a hole that is 1-inch deep. Place the garlic clove into the hole, so it is upright.
- 5
  Cover the garlic clove with soil. The filled area should be flush with the garden bed. Do not mound nor pack down the soil over top of the clove.
- 6
  Plant other cloves in the same manner at 5-inch intervals.
- 7
  Water the garlic using a watering can or garden hose. The soil should be moist. Continue watering your garden everyday throughout the growing season. Do not allow the soil to crack or dry as the foliage is growing. When the foliage begins to dry out watering can be reduced.

How to Plant Garlic in Pots

What Is Allium Sativum?

Growing Garlic