Growing your own garlic is rewarding due to its superior flavor and freshness, and Australia’s climate is ideal for cultivating this staple. Planting a single clove can yield a full bulb by season’s end. However, it’s recommended to avoid supermarket garlic for planting as it may carry diseases and is acclimated to different growing conditions. Instead, opt for seed garlic from controlled production farms to ensure disease-free planting.
Planting time for garlic in Australia is between March and early April, with colder regions planting later. Garlic thrives in full sun, rich soil with good drainage, and a pH between 6 and 7. Preparing the bed with aged cow manure and compost improves soil quality. Plant cloves 5cm deep and 10cm apart, with the pointed end up, and mulch to suppress weeds. Watering should be minimal until sprouting occurs, then maintain steady moisture without waterlogging.
Regular weeding is crucial for garlic crops, and top dressing with organic fertiliser may be necessary every few months. Garlic takes 5 to 8 months to mature, and it’s important to wait for the right harvest time. When leaves start yellowing and bulbs swell, reduce watering to help the bulbs dry. Harvesting should be done gently to avoid damaging the bulbs.
After harvesting, cure the garlic by hanging it in a dry, airy space without cleaning off the skin. Once dry, trim the stems and roots and remove the outermost layer of skin. Store the cured garlic in a dark, dry place in a breathable bag, where whole bulbs can last 3 to 5 months. For long-term storage, freezing is an option. Seed garlic bulbs are available for purchase from February to June.
Key Takeaways:
- Homegrown garlic provides superior flavor and freshness, and a single planted clove can yield a full bulb.
- Using true seed garlic rather than supermarket varieties helps prevent disease and produces higher quality crops.
- Proper soil preparation, planting technique, and maintenance are crucial for a successful garlic harvest.
“Supermarket garlic can come from a range of regions or countries where the growing conditions are quite different to ours, which can lead to low-quality crops and potentially introduce diseases into your garden.”
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