Garlic is one of the easiest and most rewarding crops you can grow at home. Whether you’re in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada, learning how to plant garlic from cloves is a simple skill that can give you a steady supply of fresh, flavorful bulbs right from your garden. From boosting your cooking to improving your health, garlic is a staple in kitchens worldwide. And the best part? You don’t need to be an expert gardener to succeed!This article explores why everyone loves how to plant garlic from cloves, practical steps to get started, and tips for growing big, healthy bulbs season after season.Why Plant Garlic at Home?Low Maintenance – Garlic practically takes care of itself once planted.Space Friendly – Perfect for small garden beds, raised beds, or containers.Flavor Upgrade – Fresh garlic tastes stronger and richer than store-bought.Health Benefits – Garlic is known for boosting immunity and heart health.Cost-Effective – A few cloves can grow into many bulbs, saving you money.Step-by-Step: How to Plant Garlic from Cloves1. Choose the Right GarlicHardneck garlic – Best for colder climates (like Canada and northern U.S.); produces scapes (edible flower stalks).Softneck garlic – Common in supermarkets; stores well; thrives in milder climates.2. Prepare the SoilGarlic loves well-drained, loose soil enriched with compost.Avoid heavy clay that holds too much water, as it can rot the cloves.Aim for a sunny spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.3. Break and Plant the ClovesSeparate the bulb into individual cloves just before planting.Plant each clove pointed end up, 2 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart.Rows should be about 12 inches apart.4. Watering and MulchingWater thoroughly after planting.Cover with a layer of mulch (straw, leaves, or grass clippings) to protect cloves and retain moisture.5. Seasonal CareKeep soil moist but not waterlogged.In spring, remove mulch once shoots appear to let soil warm up.Fertilize with compost tea or organic fertilizer for bigger bulbs.6. Harvesting GarlicGarlic is usually ready in summer (July–August) when lower leaves turn yellow.Gently dig up bulbs with a garden fork.Cure them in a dry, airy place for 2–3 weeks before storing.Extra Growing Hacks 🌱Plant garlic in fall for the biggest harvest the following summer.For smaller spaces, use deep containers—just ensure good drainage.Save the biggest cloves for replanting each year; they produce the largest bulbs.Try growing garlic indoors in pots for a steady supply of garlic greens.ConclusionIt’s no wonder that gardeners everywhere rave about how to plant garlic from cloves. The process is easy, cost-effective, and incredibly rewarding. With just a little preparation, you can grow your own supply of fresh, flavorful garlic—perfect for cooking, storing, and even replanting for years to come.So grab a bulb, break it apart, and start planting. Once you taste your first homegrown garlic, you’ll understand exactly why everyone loves how to plant garlic from cloves! 🧄✨
