Garlic Seeds: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Garlic from Bulbils

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a versatile and flavorful addition to any kitchen garden. While most garlic is propagated using cloves, it can also be grown from bulbils, often referred to as “garlic seeds.” These tiny, garlic-like structures develop in the flowering scape of hardneck garlic varieties and can be used to grow garlic in a more sustainable and disease-free way.

This guide explores what garlic seeds (bulbils) are, how to plant and grow garlic from seeds, and the benefits of this propagation method.

What Are Garlic Seeds?

Definition

Garlic seeds are technically bulbils, small garlic-like structures found in the flower heads of hardneck garlic varieties. These bulbils can be planted to grow garlic plants, although they take longer to mature into full-sized bulbs compared to cloves.

Key Characteristics

• Appearance: Tiny, garlic-like structures found in the flowering stalks.
• Use: Used as an alternative method to grow garlic.
• Development Time: Takes two years to grow into full-sized garlic bulbs.

Benefits of Growing Garlic from Seeds (Bulbils)

1. Disease-Free Propagation

• Garlic seeds are less likely to carry soil-borne diseases compared to cloves.

2. Sustainable Method

• Growing garlic from seeds allows for the continuous production of disease-free planting material.

3. Cost-Effective

• One garlic plant can produce hundreds of bulbils, providing an abundant source of planting material.

When to Plant Garlic Seeds

Autumn Planting

• Timing: Late summer to early autumn (August to September)
• Why: Planting in autumn allows garlic seeds to establish roots before winter, leading to vigorous growth in spring.

Spring Planting

• Timing: Early spring (March to April)
• Why: In colder climates, garlic seeds can be planted in spring once the soil is workable.

How to Plant Garlic Seeds

1. Preparing the Garlic Seeds

1. Collect bulbils from the flower heads of hardneck garlic plants.
2. Separate and clean the bulbils to remove any debris.

2. Preparing the Soil

• Garlic thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure.
• Choose a sunny location, as garlic requires full sun to grow well.

3. Planting the Garlic Seeds

1. Create shallow drills or individual holes, approximately 2 cm deep and spaced 5–10 cm apart.
2. Place the garlic seeds in the holes, pointed side up.
3. Cover with soil and water gently.

Caring for Garlic Plants

1. Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the early growth stages.
• Reduce watering as the plants mature to prevent rot.

2. Fertilizing

• Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during early growth.
• Switch to a balanced fertilizer as the plants develop.

3. Mulching

• Mulch the planting area with straw or organic matter to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Pest and Disease Management

• Pests: Protect plants from garlic rust, onion flies, and nematodes.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal infections by ensuring proper spacing and avoiding waterlogged soil.

Harvesting Garlic Grown from Seeds

1. First-Year Harvest

• Garlic seeds typically develop into small, single-clove bulbs, known as “rounds,” in their first year.

2. Second-Year Harvest

• Plant the rounds in autumn, and they will mature into full-sized garlic bulbs the following summer.

Harvest Timing

• Garlic is ready to harvest when the leaves turn yellow and begin to dry out, usually in late summer.

Storing Garlic

1. Curing:
   • Allow harvested garlic to cure in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.
2. Storage:
   • Store cured garlic in a cool, dark, and dry place with good ventilation.

Tips for Growing Garlic from Seeds

1. Choose Hardneck Garlic Varieties: Only hardneck garlic produces bulbils suitable for planting.
2. Prepare Soil Well: Ensure the soil is rich, well-drained, and free from weeds.
3. Be Patient: Growing garlic from seeds takes two years but produces healthy and disease-free plants.
4. Protect from Frost: Mulch heavily to protect young plants in colder climates.
5. Rotate Crops: Avoid planting garlic in the same location two years in a row to prevent disease buildup.

Common Problems When Growing Garlic from Seeds

1. Slow Growth

• Cause: Poor soil fertility or low temperatures.
• Solution: Enrich the soil with compost and ensure the planting area receives adequate sunlight.

2. Pest Infestations

• Common Pests: Garlic rust, onion flies, and nematodes.
• Solution: Use crop rotation, companion planting, and protective netting.

3. Fungal Diseases

• Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.
• Solution: Avoid waterlogged soil and space plants properly to improve airflow.

Top 10 Questions About Garlic Seeds

1. What are garlic seeds?

Garlic seeds are bulbils, small garlic-like structures found in the flower heads of hardneck garlic plants.

2. Can garlic seeds grow into full-sized bulbs?

Yes, garlic seeds can grow into full-sized bulbs, but it typically takes two years.

3. When should I plant garlic seeds?

Plant garlic seeds in late summer to early autumn or early spring, depending on your climate.

4. How long does it take to grow garlic from seeds?

It takes two years to grow full-sized garlic bulbs from seeds.

5. Do garlic seeds need special preparation before planting?

No special preparation is needed, but soaking the seeds overnight can speed up germination.

6. What type of soil is best for garlic seeds?

Garlic seeds thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.

7. How deep should I plant garlic seeds?

Plant garlic seeds about 2 cm deep with the pointed side facing up.

8. Can I plant garlic seeds in containers?

Yes, garlic seeds can be grown in containers with sufficient depth and drainage.

9. How do I prevent pests and diseases in garlic plants?

Use crop rotation, mulch, and protective netting to reduce pests and diseases.

10. Are garlic seeds better than planting cloves?

Garlic seeds are more sustainable and disease-free but require more time to produce full-sized bulbs.

Conclusion

Growing garlic from seeds, or bulbils, is a sustainable and cost-effective way to propagate garlic. While it requires patience, the process results in disease-free plants and an abundant supply of garlic for your garden. By planting at the right time, preparing the soil, and following proper care techniques, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful garlic for years to come.