When to plant Garlic in London

Ensure the soil is well-draining and fertile. Dig in compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure, ideally 18th February - 5th 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 5th March - 21st 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 12th March - 19th July after planting.

If growing hardneck varieties, snap off the curly flower scapes in late spring to direct energy into bulb growth. Do this 3rd June - 19th July when scapes appear.

Lift bulbs when the foliage starts to yellow and fall over, typically 3rd July - 18th 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 3rd July - 25th August after harvest.