When to plant Garlic in Brighton

Ensure the soil is well-draining and fertile. Dig in compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure, ideally 24th February - 11th 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 11th March - 27th March.

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 18th March - 25th July after planting.

If growing hardneck varieties, snap off the curly flower scapes in late spring to direct energy into bulb growth. Do this 9th June - 25th July when scapes appear.

Lift bulbs when the foliage starts to yellow and fall over, typically 9th July - 24th August. 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 9th July - 31st August after harvest.