Grow garlic from sets
Garlic is easy and rewarding to grow. Some garlic is mild in flavour whereas other kinds offer punchy aromatic flavours; some are suitable for storing while other types are best eaten fresh; and you can also choose between spring and autumn planting garlic – or go for both and enjoy an extended garlic season.
What are some things to consider when growing garlic?
Garlic is easy and rewarding to grow, and offers gardeners lots of interest and variety as well as considerable health benefits. Some garlic is mild in flavour whereas other kinds offer punchy aromatic flavours; some are suitable for storing while other types are best eaten fresh; and you can also choose between spring and autumn planting garlic – or go for both and enjoy an extended garlic season.
What are the differences between hardneck and softneck garlic?
Hardneck garlic features a solid stem growing from the centre of the clove whereas softneck garlic does not. In general softneck varieties store better than hardneck garlic which begins to go past its best after three to four months in storage. Having said that, hardneck garlic is hardier and suits colder climates which, depending where in the UK you live, will influence your decision as to what combination to grow."
How to plant garlic sets
Garlic sets are best planted in well-drained soil so that the tips are just below the surface. Allow 10-15cm between sets and space rows 15-20cm apart. Individual growing instructions vary depending on the variety, so always be sure to check the packet beforehand.
For more information on growing garlic at home we recommend our guide which features the best expert advice on cultivating garlic from some of the most experienced growers online.
