When to plant Garlic in Aberdeen

Ensure the soil is well-draining and fertile. Dig in compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure, ideally 16th March - 31st March. Remove any weeds and break up clods.

Plant individual cloves with the tips just showing above the soil, spaced 15 cm apart in rows 30 cm apart. Firm the soil gently around them. This is best done 31st March - 16th April.

Keep the area weed-free and water during dry spells to ensure good growth. Garlic has shallow roots and benefits from consistent moisture. Maintain this 7th April - 14th August after planting.

If growing hardneck varieties, snap off the curly flower scapes in late spring to direct energy into bulb growth. Do this 29th June - 14th August when scapes appear.

Lift bulbs when the foliage starts to yellow and fall over, typically 29th July - 13th September. Use a fork to loosen the soil and avoid damaging the bulbs.

Dry the harvested bulbs in a well-ventilated, shaded spot for 2–3 weeks until the skins are papery. Trim the roots and foliage before storing in a cool, dry place. Start curing 29th July - 20th September after harvest.