Field guide
How to grow garlic: planting, care, and harvest guide
Garlic typically reaches first harvest in 180–240 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant garlic by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — fall only
- USDA Zones 5–6 — fall only
- USDA Zones 7–8 — fall only
- USDA Zones 9–10 — fall only
- USDA Zones 11–13 — fall only
Companion plants
Good companions: Tomato (Slicing), roses, Pepper (Sweet/Bell)
Avoid planting with: beans, Peas
Harvest
When to pick
- Lower 3-4 leaves have turned brown while upper leaves are still green
- This usually happens in early-mid summer for fall-planted garlic
- Don't wait until all leaves are brown — the bulb wrapping will deteriorate
How: Loosen soil with a fork and lift gently. Don't pull by the stem. Brush off soil but don't wash. Cure by hanging in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated area for 3-4 weeks.
Storage: Store cured bulbs in a cool (50-60°F), dry place with good airflow. Hardneck: 4-6 months. Softneck: 6-9 months.
Common pests and problems
Allium Leaf Miner
Signs: Lines of tiny dots on leaves, wavy distorted leaves, larvae in bulb
Control: Row covers in spring and fall when adults are active. Remove and destroy infested plants.
White Rot
Signs: Yellowing leaves, white fluffy fungal growth at the base, rotting bulbs
Control: No chemical cure — rotate away from alliums for 8+ years if infected. Plant clean seed stock. Solarize soil.
About this field guide
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