How To Grow Hardneck Garlic
Hardneck garlic is a popular variety known for its strong flavor and large cloves. Planting it in the fall is ideal for harvesting in the late spring or early summer. Here's a guide on how to plant hardneck garlic.
Choose the right time
Planting garlic is best done 4 to 6 weeks before the first hard ground freeze in the fall. This critical window allows the cloves enough time to develop a strong root system before the onset of winter dormancy. Establishing these deep roots is essential as it anchors the plant, prevents potential damage from freeze-thaw cycles, and provides a significant head start for growth in the spring. Ultimately, this proper fall timing is the key to harvesting larger, healthier garlic bulbs the following summer.
Prepare the soil
Hardneck garlic prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a sunny location and dig a bed about 6-8 inches deep. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility.
Plant the garlic cloves
Separate the individual cloves from the garlic bulb. Discard any cloves that are damaged or diseased. Plant each clove with the pointed end facing upward, about 2 inches deep. Space the cloves about 4-6 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.
Cover and mulch
After planting, cover the garlic cloves with a thin layer of soil. Mulch the bed with straw, leaves, or plastic mulch to help retain moisture and protect the cloves from harsh winter conditions.
Water regularly
Water the garlic bed deeply after planting and again during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot.
Protect from pests and diseases
Keep an eye out for common garlic pests like nematodes and diseases such as white rot. If you notice any signs of problems, take appropriate measures to control them.
Harvesting, Drying/Curing, and Storing Hardneck Garlic
Proper harvesting, drying/curing, and storing is essential for preserving the quality and flavor of hardneck garlic. Here's some information regarding harvesting, drying/curing, and storing hardneck garlic.
Harvest at the right time
Garlic is ready to harvest when about 1/2 of the leaves turn yellow and die back and about 3-4 weeks after the garlic scapes have been trimmed. Gently dig up the bulbs and allow them to dry and cure for about 3-4 weeks in a dry, dark, well-ventilated space.
Remove the outer skin
After drying, remove the outer skin of the garlic bulbs. You can leave the remaining layers intact for storage. Ideally, try to keep as much of the outer skin intact as possible until ready for use as this helps store longer.
Store
Store garlic bulbs on drying racks or in well-ventilated mesh bags/containers in a cool, dry, dark space. Our hardneck garlic can store for up to 8-9 months depending upon how it is stored.
Check for signs of spoilage
Periodically check your stored garlic for signs of spoilage, such as mold or soft spots. Remove any damaged bulbs to prevent them from affecting the rest.
Use or replant within a year
Hardneck garlic is best used within a year of harvest. If you plan to store it for longer, consider replanting some of the cloves to ensure a continuous supply.