When to plant Garlic in Manchester

Ensure the soil is well-draining and fertile. Dig in compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure, ideally 3rd March - 18th 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 18th March - 3rd 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 25th March - 1st August after planting.

If growing hardneck varieties, snap off the curly flower scapes in late spring to direct energy into bulb growth. Do this 16th June - 1st August when scapes appear.

Lift bulbs when the foliage starts to yellow and fall over, typically 16th July - 31st 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 16th July - 7th September after harvest.