How to Grow Garlic in the UK – Complete Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to grow garlic in the UK, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables you can grow at home.

Garlic is a fantastic crop for beginners because it requires relatively little maintenance, takes up less space than many vegetables and can provide a useful harvest year after year.

You don’t even need a large vegetable garden.

Garlic can be grown in traditional allotment beds, raised beds and containers, making it suitable for everything from a large allotment to a small patio.

One of the things I love most about growing garlic is that you can plant suitable varieties during autumn, allow them to grow through winter and then enjoy a delicious harvest the following summer.

Here at Gardening with Ben, garlic and elephant garlic are crops I enjoy planting on the allotment.

There’s something satisfying about separating a garlic bulb into individual cloves, planting them in the soil and knowing that every healthy clove has the potential to grow into an entirely new bulb.

However, there are a few important things to understand if you want a successful harvest.

Choosing the right garlic variety, planting at the correct depth, giving the cloves enough space and understanding when to harvest can all make a difference.

In this complete UK guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about growing garlic, including when to plant, choosing varieties, preparing your soil, looking after plants throughout the year and harvesting and storing your bulbs.

Whether you’re growing garlic for the first time or looking to improve your harvest, these practical tips will help you get started.

Is Garlic Easy to Grow in the UK?

Yes! Garlic is generally a straightforward crop to grow in Britain.

It prefers a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil and performs particularly well when suitable varieties are planted during autumn.

Unlike many summer vegetables, garlic doesn’t require consistently warm temperatures throughout its growing season.

In fact, many varieties benefit from exposure to winter cold because this helps them form properly divided bulbs.

Why Is Garlic a Good Crop for Beginners?

There are several reasons:

• Garlic is planted from cloves rather than needing to be raised from tiny seeds.
• Suitable varieties tolerate normal UK winter conditions.
• Plants don’t generally require supports or complicated pruning.
• Garlic takes up relatively little growing space.
• Established crops need only occasional watering during dry periods.
• Properly cured garlic can be stored for several months.

However, it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions and start with suitable, healthy planting material.

When Should You Plant Garlic in the UK?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about growing garlic.

For many varieties, autumn is the best time to plant garlic in the UK.

October and November are particularly popular months, although planting dates depend on the variety.

Planting Garlic in October

October is an excellent time to plant many autumn garlic varieties.

The cloves can begin developing roots while the soil is still reasonably workable.

Natural winter cold then helps support bulb development in suitable varieties.

Planting Garlic in November

November is another ideal planting month for many varieties.

As long as the ground isn’t waterlogged or frozen, planting can continue.

Can You Plant Garlic in December?

Yes.

Some varieties can be planted during December or early winter.

Check the supplier’s recommendations before planting.

Can You Plant Garlic in Spring?

Yes, certain varieties are suitable for late-winter or spring planting.

However, spring-planted garlic has a shorter growing season and may produce smaller bulbs.

Some varieties also require sufficient cold exposure to develop individual cloves.

Why Does Garlic Need Cold Weather?

Many garlic varieties require a period of cool temperatures for normal bulb development.

This process is associated with vernalisation.

Without suitable cold exposure, some plants may develop a single round bulb rather than dividing into several cloves.

What Are the Best Garlic Varieties to Grow in the UK?

Choosing a suitable variety can make a big difference to your harvest.

There are two main garlic groups commonly grown in Britain: hardneck and softneck.

Hardneck Garlic

Hardneck varieties generally develop a firm central flowering stalk.

They commonly produce fewer but larger cloves.

Some varieties are particularly well suited to colder growing conditions.

Hardneck garlic can also produce curly flowering stems called garlic scapes, which are edible.

However, hardneck varieties generally have a shorter storage life than suitable softneck varieties.

Softneck Garlic

Softneck garlic often produces more, smaller cloves.

It usually stores well when properly cured.

Many softneck varieties are popular with UK gardeners because of their productivity and storage potential.

Popular Garlic Varieties for UK Gardens

‘Solent Wight’ is a softneck garlic adapted to British conditions and valued for its storage qualities.

‘Germidour’ is a productive softneck variety commonly chosen for its relatively large bulbs.

‘Cristo’ is a softneck variety with a strong flavour.

‘Arno’ is another softneck option known for storing well.

When purchasing garlic, always check the recommended planting period because varieties can differ.

Can You Grow Garlic from Supermarket Bulbs?

You can sometimes grow garlic purchased from a supermarket.

However, it isn’t generally recommended for a productive allotment or vegetable garden.

There are several reasons.

The Variety May Be Unsuitable

Supermarket garlic may be imported from countries with different growing conditions.

You might not know which variety you’re planting.

There May Be Disease Risks

Garlic sold for eating isn’t necessarily produced under the same planting-stock controls as garlic intended for cultivation.

This can increase the risk of introducing pests and diseases into your garden.

Onion white rot is a particularly serious concern because it can persist in soil for many years.

Storage Can Affect Growth

Some bulbs may have been stored for extended periods.

Their age and storage conditions can affect sprouting and vigour.

What’s the Better Choice?

Purchase healthy, named planting garlic from a reputable garden centre or specialist supplier.

This is generally a more reliable way to grow garlic successfully in the UK.

Where Is the Best Place to Grow Garlic?

Garlic performs best in a sunny position with well-drained soil.

Does Garlic Need Full Sun?

Yes, garlic generally grows best in full sun.

Its leaves need plenty of light to produce the energy required for bulb development.

What Soil Does Garlic Prefer?

Ideally, the soil should be:

• Fertile.
• Well drained.
• Reasonably moisture-retentive.
• Free from serious compaction.
• Clear of established weeds.

Can Garlic Grow in Clay Soil?

Yes, but heavy clay can become waterlogged during winter.

Improve soil structure using suitable organic matter.

Avoid digging clay soil when it’s saturated.

If drainage remains poor, consider raised beds or growing garlic in containers.

Can Garlic Grow in Raised Beds?

Absolutely.

Raised beds can provide excellent growing conditions, especially if they contain suitable soil and drain well.

They’re also easier to maintain without walking on the growing area.

How to Prepare Soil Before Planting Garlic

Good soil preparation gives garlic a strong start.

Remove Weeds

Garlic doesn’t compete particularly well with established weeds.

Remove persistent weeds such as bindweed and couch grass before planting.

Improve Soil Structure

Add mature garden compost if the soil needs additional organic matter.

This can help improve both moisture retention and soil structure.

Avoid Fresh Manure

Fresh manure immediately before planting isn’t recommended.

Use appropriately well-rotted organic matter if required.

Check Drainage

If water remains standing on the soil after prolonged rain, investigate drainage before planting.

Avoid Overfeeding

You don’t need to apply large quantities of fertiliser just because you’re planting garlic.

A fertile, well-prepared bed is a good starting point.

How to Grow Garlic in the UK – Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Now let’s look at exactly how to plant garlic.

This method is suitable for ordinary garlic grown in allotment beds, vegetable gardens and raised beds.

Step 1: Choose Healthy Garlic Bulbs

Purchase suitable planting garlic.

Look for bulbs that are firm and free from visible mould, soft areas or damage.

Step 2: Separate the Bulb into Cloves

Carefully break apart the bulb.

Each individual clove can grow into a new garlic plant.

Keep the protective papery covering around each clove where possible.

Step 3: Select Suitable Cloves

Choose firm, healthy cloves.

Avoid planting damaged or rotten material.

Step 4: Prepare Planting Holes

Use a dibber, trowel or your fingers to create planting holes.

Step 5: Plant the Correct Way Up

Position each clove with its pointed end facing upwards.

The flat basal plate should face downwards.

Roots grow from the base, while the shoot emerges from the pointed end.

Step 6: Plant at the Correct Depth

For many varieties, position the pointed tip approximately 2.5 cm below the soil surface.

Slightly deeper planting may be suitable in lighter soil.

Avoid unnecessarily deep planting in heavy, wet ground.

Follow variety-specific supplier advice.

Step 7: Allow Enough Spacing

Aim for approximately 15 cm between cloves and 30 cm between rows.

This gives developing bulbs sufficient room.

Step 8: Cover and Firm the Soil

Cover each clove.

Gently firm the surface without compacting it excessively.

Step 9: Water if Necessary

If the soil is dry, water after planting.

If autumn rainfall has already provided adequate moisture, additional watering may not be necessary.

Step 10: Protect Newly Planted Cloves

Birds occasionally disturb garlic before it establishes roots.

Suitable horticultural fleece or securely installed wildlife-safe protection can help.

Gardening with Ben tip: Don’t plant an entire garlic bulb in one hole if you want full-sized bulbs. Separate it into individual cloves and give each plant space to grow.

Can You Grow Garlic in Pots?

Yes, and garlic is an excellent container crop.

If you don’t have an allotment, a few large pots on a sunny patio can provide a worthwhile harvest.

What Size Pot Is Best?

Choose a container at least 25 cm deep.

The width determines how many cloves you can plant.

Allow approximately 15 cm between cloves.

What Compost Should You Use?

A good-quality peat-free multipurpose or suitable soil-based potting compost can work well.

Choose a mix that drains adequately.

Does Container Garlic Need More Water?

Container compost can dry out faster than garden soil.

Check moisture regularly, especially during spring.

Can Garlic Pots Stay Outside During Winter?

Suitable varieties are generally hardy, but containers need good drainage.

Move them into shelter during severe weather if necessary.

For more detailed advice, read our separate guide to growing garlic in pots in the UK.

How to Grow Garlic in Heavy or Waterlogged Soil

If your garden becomes extremely wet in winter, planting directly into the ground may cause problems.

Garlic cloves can rot when they remain in saturated soil.

One useful alternative is to start them in modules.

Starting Garlic in Modules

Fill suitable deep modules with peat-free compost.

Plant one clove in each module.

Keep the trays in an unheated greenhouse, cold frame or sheltered outdoor location.

Maintain slight moisture without waterlogging.

Allow the cloves to receive suitable winter conditions.

When the ground becomes workable in spring, transplant the rooted garlic into prepared beds.

Why Is This Method Useful?

It allows garlic to establish without sitting in wet garden soil all winter.

It’s particularly helpful on heavy clay soils.

Take care not to damage the roots when planting out.

How Often Should You Water Garlic?

Garlic needs enough water to support healthy growth, but excessive moisture can cause serious problems.

Autumn

Natural rainfall is usually sufficient for outdoor garlic.

Winter

Garlic grows relatively slowly during cold weather.

Avoid watering already wet soil.

Spring

As temperatures rise, garlic develops stronger foliage.

Water during prolonged dry spells.

Early Summer

Bulb development requires suitable moisture.

Avoid allowing plants to suffer severe drought.

Before Harvesting

Reduce or stop watering once bulbs are well formed and the foliage begins naturally yellowing.

Excessive moisture close to harvesting can encourage deterioration.

How Do You Know If Garlic Needs Water?

Check the soil beneath the surface.

If the root area is dry, water appropriately.

Don’t rely on a fixed watering schedule.

What Is the Best Feed for Garlic?

Garlic benefits from fertile soil and balanced nutrition.

However, constantly adding fertiliser doesn’t automatically produce bigger bulbs.

Feeding at Planting Time

If your soil contains adequate nutrients and suitable organic matter, additional feeding may not be needed immediately.

Feeding in Spring

As leaf growth increases, suitable balanced feeding may benefit plants growing in nutrient-poor soil.

Follow the fertiliser manufacturer’s instructions.

Can You Use Chicken Manure Pellets?

Yes, chicken manure pellets can provide nutrients.

However, avoid overapplying nitrogen-rich fertilisers.

Can You Feed Garlic with Tomato Feed?

Some gardeners use potassium-rich feeds later in the growing season.

However, tomato feed isn’t essential for garlic.

The correct fertiliser depends on soil fertility and plant needs.

When Should You Stop Feeding?

Avoid unnecessary high-nitrogen applications as bulbs approach maturity.

Healthy foliage, suitable moisture and adequate sunlight are just as important as fertiliser.

How to Look After Garlic During Winter

Garlic is a relatively hardy crop.

Suitable autumn-planted varieties generally tolerate normal British winter temperatures.

However, winter care still matters.

Keep the Soil Well Drained

Waterlogged soil is one of the biggest risks.

Remove Established Weeds

Weeds continue growing during mild winter periods.

Control them before they compete strongly with garlic.

Watch for Bird Damage

Birds may pull up cloves before they’re established.

Avoid Excessive Watering

Outdoor garlic often needs no additional water during wet winter weather.

Protect Container Roots

Pots are more exposed to temperature extremes.

Keep them adequately drained and secure.

Don’t Worry About Slow Growth

Garlic may appear to do very little during winter.

Root development and seasonal cold exposure are still important.

How to Care for Garlic During Spring

Spring is an important time for producing a good garlic harvest.

As daylight increases, garlic leaves grow more vigorously.

Healthy leaves are needed to support bulb development.

Remove Weeds Regularly

Weeds compete for light, moisture and nutrients.

Hand weeding is useful because it reduces the risk of damaging garlic roots.

Check Moisture

Water during prolonged dry spells.

Monitor Leaf Colour

Healthy, actively growing leaves are normally green.

Unexpected yellowing may indicate stress, disease or growing problems.

Check for Pests

Look for leaf damage, unusual distortion and signs of insects.

Feed Where Necessary

If the soil is lacking nutrients, use an appropriate balanced fertiliser.

What Are Garlic Scapes?

Some garlic varieties, particularly hardneck garlic, produce curly flowering stalks called scapes.

These usually develop during late spring or early summer.

Should You Remove Garlic Scapes?

If your main goal is producing large garlic bulbs, removing developing scapes is common practice.

Can You Eat Garlic Scapes?

Yes.

Young garlic scapes are edible and have a delicious garlic flavour.

They can be used in stir-fries, pasta dishes and pesto.

Do Softneck Varieties Produce Scapes?

Softneck varieties are much less likely to produce prominent scapes.

When Does Garlic Start Forming Bulbs?

Garlic bulb development is influenced by temperature, day length, variety and plant maturity.

During spring, the plant builds foliage and prepares for bulb formation.

As seasonal conditions become suitable, the bulb begins developing underground.

Why Are Healthy Leaves Important?

Leaves produce energy through photosynthesis.

This energy supports the development of the bulb.

Can You Remove Garlic Leaves?

If you’re growing garlic primarily for mature bulbs, avoid removing large amounts of healthy foliage.

Why Are My Garlic Bulbs Small?

Possible causes include:

• Insufficient sunlight.
• Overcrowding.
• Unsuitable variety.
• Drought during active growth.
• Poor soil conditions.
• Inadequate cold exposure.
• Harvesting too early.

Good growing conditions throughout the season are the best way to encourage healthy bulb development.

When Is Garlic Ready to Harvest in the UK?

Many autumn-planted varieties are ready during late spring or summer.

Spring-planted garlic may mature later.

The exact harvest date depends on the variety and weather.

Look for Yellowing Leaves

As garlic reaches maturity, some lower leaves begin turning yellow or brown.

This is a useful indication that harvest time may be approaching.

Check a Sample Bulb

Carefully lift one plant to inspect the bulb.

Look for properly formed cloves and healthy protective wrappers.

Don’t Leave Garlic Too Long

Overmature bulbs may split.

Their outer wrappers can deteriorate, reducing storage quality.

Should Every Leaf Be Brown Before Harvesting?

No.

Waiting until every leaf has completely died can result in bulbs remaining underground too long.

How to Harvest Garlic Correctly

Harvesting is one of the most rewarding parts of growing garlic.

Step 1: Choose Suitable Weather

A period of dry weather can make lifting and curing easier.

Step 2: Loosen the Soil

Use a garden fork to loosen the ground around the bulb.

Avoid damaging it.

Step 3: Lift Carefully

Lift the garlic rather than pulling forcefully on the leaves.

Step 4: Remove Excess Soil

Gently brush away loose soil.

Avoid bruising the bulbs.

Step 5: Inspect the Harvest

Separate healthy bulbs from those showing damage or disease.

Step 6: Begin Drying

Move the bulbs somewhere dry and well ventilated.

If you’re harvesting garlic from containers, loosen the compost carefully before lifting each plant.

How to Dry and Store Garlic

Freshly harvested garlic needs to be cured properly for longer-term storage.

Where Should You Dry Garlic?

Choose somewhere dry, sheltered and well ventilated.

A suitable shed or ventilated greenhouse can work well.

Avoid excessive heat.

How Long Does Curing Take?

Initial curing commonly takes around two to four weeks, depending on conditions.

Should You Wash Garlic?

Avoid washing bulbs intended for storage.

Excess water can encourage deterioration.

Gently remove loose soil instead.

When Can You Trim Garlic?

Once the leaves and neck are dry, trim the roots and stems as appropriate.

Where Should You Store Garlic?

Keep properly cured bulbs somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.

Mesh bags and breathable baskets can be useful.

Avoid sealed plastic bags.

How Long Does Home-Grown Garlic Keep?

Hardneck varieties often store for several months.

Many suitable softneck varieties store for longer.

Storage life depends on variety, curing quality and conditions.

Common Garlic Growing Problems in the UK

Garlic is relatively straightforward to grow, but pests and diseases can sometimes cause trouble.

Onion White Rot

Onion white rot is a serious fungal disease affecting garlic and other alliums.

Affected plants may develop yellowing foliage, poor growth and decaying roots or bulbs.

The disease can persist in the soil for many years.

Avoid spreading potentially contaminated soil, compost or planting material.

Garlic Rust

Garlic rust causes orange-brown pustules on leaves.

Severe infections can reduce the plant’s ability to grow strongly.

Allium Leaf Miner

Allium leaf miner larvae can damage garlic, onions, leeks and related crops.

Affected foliage may become distorted.

Fine insect-proof mesh can help protect crops when fitted before adult flies begin laying eggs.

Onion Fly

Onion fly larvae can damage the base and roots of garlic and other alliums.

Yellow Garlic Leaves

Yellowing can be natural close to harvest.

Earlier yellowing may indicate poor drainage, drought, nutrient problems or disease.

Garlic Not Forming Cloves

Some plants develop a single round bulb.

Insufficient cold exposure is one possible cause.

Garlic Bulbs Rotting

Waterlogging, poor drainage and disease may contribute.

Remove affected material and investigate the cause.

Ten Common Garlic Growing Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Unsuitable Planting Garlic

Choose healthy named varieties intended for UK cultivation.

2. Planting an Entire Bulb

Separate the bulb into individual cloves for normal bulb production.

3. Planting in Waterlogged Soil

Garlic needs adequate drainage.

4. Growing in Too Much Shade

Choose a sunny position.

5. Planting Too Closely Together

Give each clove sufficient space to develop.

6. Allowing Weeds to Take Over

Weeds compete with garlic for light and nutrients.

7. Overwatering

Excessive moisture can cause root and bulb problems.

8. Overfeeding

More fertiliser doesn’t automatically produce bigger bulbs.

9. Removing Too Much Foliage

Healthy leaves support bulb development.

10. Harvesting at the Wrong Time

Check maturity rather than relying entirely on a calendar date.

Month-by-Month Garlic Growing Calendar for the UK

Month	Main garlic growing jobs
January	Check winter drainage and inspect autumn-planted garlic.
February	Plant suitable late-winter varieties where appropriate.
March	Remove weeds and monitor spring growth.
April	Water during dry weather and assess feeding needs.
May	Watch for developing bulbs, pests and hardneck scapes.
June	Check early-maturing garlic for harvest readiness.
July	Harvest many autumn-planted varieties and begin curing.
August	Harvest later garlic and store properly dried bulbs.
September	Choose varieties and prepare ground for autumn planting.
October	Plant suitable autumn garlic cloves.
November	Continue planting and protect newly planted cloves.
December	Monitor drainage and protect containers from severe weather.

The exact timing varies across the UK and between garlic varieties.

Can You Save Garlic Bulbs to Plant Next Year?

Yes, but only save healthy planting material.

If your garlic crop has grown well and shows no signs of disease, you may be able to save suitable bulbs for the next growing season.

Choose Healthy Bulbs

Select well-developed, firm bulbs.

Cure Properly

Make sure the bulbs are thoroughly dried before storage.

Store Carefully

Keep them somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.

Separate Before Planting

When planting time arrives, divide the bulb into healthy cloves.

Don’t Save Diseased Garlic

Avoid replanting or distributing garlic from crops showing suspicious symptoms.

Growing Garlic Alongside Other Vegetables

Garlic can fit into a productive vegetable garden, but it’s important to plan your growing space.

Can You Grow Garlic Near Onions?

Yes.

However, garlic and onions belong to the same plant family and share some pests and diseases.

Should You Rotate Garlic Crops?

Crop rotation can help manage some pests and diseases, particularly when combined with good hygiene.

Avoid repeatedly growing alliums in the same small area when possible.

However, rotation alone won’t quickly eliminate persistent onion white rot.

What Can You Plant After Garlic?

Because garlic often finishes during summer, you may have time to plant another suitable crop.

Depending on the date and growing conditions, options could include salad leaves, rocket or other quick-growing seasonal vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Garlic in the UK

What is the best month to plant garlic in the UK?

October and November are excellent planting months for many autumn garlic varieties. Some varieties are suitable for winter or spring planting.

How deep should garlic be planted?

For many varieties, plant cloves with the pointed tip approximately 2.5 cm beneath the soil surface.

How far apart should garlic cloves be?

Allow approximately 15 cm between cloves and 30 cm between rows.

Does garlic grow better in sun or shade?

Garlic generally grows best in full sun.

Can I grow garlic in pots?

Yes. Choose containers at least 25 cm deep with good drainage.

Can you grow garlic in raised beds?

Yes. Raised beds can be particularly useful where normal garden soil is heavy or poorly drained.

Can you plant supermarket garlic?

It may grow, but buying suitable planting garlic from a reputable supplier is recommended.

Does garlic need fertiliser?

Garlic benefits from fertile soil. Additional balanced feeding may help if soil nutrients are insufficient.

Can garlic survive winter in the UK?

Yes. Suitable varieties are generally hardy, although prolonged waterlogging can cause problems.

How long does garlic take to grow?

Autumn-planted garlic commonly takes several months and is usually harvested the following late spring or summer.

Why isn’t my garlic forming bulbs?

Possible causes include unsuitable varieties, inadequate cold exposure, poor growing conditions or harvesting before maturity.

Why are my garlic leaves yellow?

Yellowing can indicate natural maturity, water stress, nutrient problems or disease.

When should I stop watering garlic?

Reduce or stop watering when bulbs are mature and foliage begins naturally yellowing.

When do you harvest garlic in the UK?

Many autumn-planted crops are harvested during late spring and summer, often June or July.

Can I grow garlic in a greenhouse?

Yes, but sufficient cold exposure, good ventilation and suitable growing conditions remain important.

Can I grow garlic indoors?

Garlic greens are relatively easy to grow indoors. Producing mature divided bulbs indoors is much more challenging.

Can I grow garlic from seed?

True botanical garlic seed exists but is uncommon. Ordinary garlic is normally grown from cloves.

What is elephant garlic?

Elephant garlic is a different allium, more closely related to leeks, and produces very large, mild-flavoured cloves.

Can I store garlic after harvesting?

Yes. Properly cured garlic can be stored for several months under suitable conditions.

Can I save my own garlic for next year?

Healthy, disease-free bulbs may be suitable for saving and replanting.

Final Thoughts: Growing Garlic in the UK Is Worth Trying

Garlic is one of the most rewarding vegetables you can grow in a British garden or allotment.

It’s relatively easy to plant, requires limited maintenance and can provide a fantastic harvest during summer.

Whether you’re growing garlic in traditional vegetable beds, raised beds or containers, the most important thing is to start with healthy planting cloves and give them suitable growing conditions.

Choose varieties suited to the UK, plant at the appropriate time and make sure the soil drains properly.

During autumn and winter, keep the area clear of serious weeds and avoid waterlogging.

As spring arrives, monitor soil moisture and encourage healthy leaf development.

Then, when the foliage begins showing signs of maturity, check your bulbs and harvest at the correct time.

After drying and storing your garlic properly, you’ll have delicious home-grown garlic ready to use in the kitchen.

And there’s something incredibly satisfying about knowing that every bulb began with one small clove planted months earlier.

If you’ve never grown garlic before, I’d definitely recommend giving it a go this autumn.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!