When to plant Garlic in Durham

Ensure the soil is well-draining and fertile. Dig in compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure, ideally 26th March - 10th April. 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 10th April - 26th 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 17th April - 24th August after planting.

If growing hardneck varieties, snap off the curly flower scapes in late spring to direct energy into bulb growth. Do this 9th July - 24th August when scapes appear.

Lift bulbs when the foliage starts to yellow and fall over, typically 8th August - 23rd 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 8th August - 30th September after harvest.