UK gardeners should plant garlic between October and November for the best harvests, as most varieties need 4-6 weeks of cold below 10C to form proper bulbs. Softneck types like Solent Wight produce 10-20 cloves per bulb and store for up to 10 months. Hardneck varieties such as Lautrec Wight develop fewer but larger cloves with stronger flavour. Each clove planted yields one full bulb. Garlic needs well-drained soil, 15cm spacing, and full sun.
Key takeaways
- Plant garlic cloves in October or November so they receive the cold period needed to form full bulbs
- Softneck varieties store for up to 10 months, while hardneck types last 3-5 months after harvest
- Space cloves 15cm apart in rows 30cm apart, planted 2.5cm below the soil surface with the pointed end up
- Remove scapes (flower stalks) from hardneck garlic in late spring to direct energy into bulb growth
- Harvest when the lower third of leaves turn yellow, typically June for early varieties and July-August for maincrops
- Cure bulbs in a dry, airy place for 2-3 weeks before storing to extend shelf life significantly
garlic vegetables grow your own allotment autumn planting beginner friendly
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
