The Ultimate Guide to Growing Garlic Varieties in the UK

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a beloved ingredient in kitchens around the world, known for its aromatic flavor and numerous health benefits. Growing your own garlic can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right varieties for your climate and soil conditions. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best garlic varieties to grow in the UK, including their characteristics, growing requirements, and culinary uses. Let’s dive into the world of garlic and discover how to cultivate these flavorful bulbs in your garden!

Understanding Garlic Varieties

Garlic is typically classified into two main categories: hardneck and softneck varieties. Understanding these classifications can help you choose the best garlic for your needs.

Hardneck Garlic

Hardneck garlic varieties have a hard flower stalk, known as a scape, which emerges in the spring. These types tend to have larger cloves and more complex flavors. They are best suited for cooler climates and generally have a shorter shelf life than softneck varieties. Some popular hardneck garlic varieties include:

• ‘Music’: Known for its robust flavor and large cloves, ‘Music’ is a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. It is resistant to diseases and is well-suited for the UK climate.
• ‘Porcelain’: This variety produces large, plump bulbs with a strong, rich flavor. It is ideal for roasting and has excellent storage potential.
• ‘Spanish Roja’: A classic heirloom variety with a spicy flavor, ‘Spanish Roja’ is often used in gourmet cooking. It is also known for its vibrant purple skin.
• ‘Chesnok Red’: Renowned for its sweet, rich taste, this variety is perfect for raw applications, such as salad dressings. It also stores well and has a beautiful purple hue.

Softneck Garlic

Softneck garlic varieties lack the hard scape and have a softer structure. They are generally more adaptable to different climates and can be stored for longer periods. Popular softneck garlic varieties include:

• ‘California Softneck’: This is one of the most common softneck varieties, known for its strong flavor and adaptability. It produces many cloves per bulb, making it a favorite for home gardeners.
• ‘Silverskin’: With a mild flavor and multiple layers of cloves, ‘Silverskin’ garlic is perfect for braiding and long-term storage. It is also one of the most popular types sold in supermarkets.
• ‘Lorz’: A flavorful softneck variety, ‘Lorz’ produces medium-sized bulbs with a good yield. It has a sweet, mild taste and is great for cooking.
• ‘Inchelium Red’: An heirloom softneck garlic with a rich, buttery flavor. It is known for its adaptability and long storage life.

Choosing the Right Garlic Variety for Your Garden

When selecting the best garlic varieties to grow in the UK, consider the following factors:

• Climate: Hardneck garlic varieties thrive in cooler temperatures, while softneck varieties are more adaptable to a range of climates.
• Soil Conditions: Garlic prefers well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s pH and nutrient levels.
• Culinary Use: Choose varieties based on how you plan to use them in your cooking. For example, if you enjoy raw garlic in salads, opt for sweeter varieties like ‘Chesnok Red’.

Growing Garlic: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you’ve selected the best garlic varieties for your garden, it’s time to learn how to grow them successfully.

Step 1: Preparing the Soil

Garlic thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Here’s how to prepare your soil:

1. Choose a Sunny Location: Garlic requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Select a spot in your garden that receives plenty of sun.
2. Amend the Soil: Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Garlic prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Till the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches. This will help the garlic bulbs establish strong roots and encourage healthy growth.

Step 2: Planting Garlic

Garlic is typically planted in the autumn (September to November) or early spring (March to April) in the UK.

Planting in Autumn

1. Separate the Cloves: Choose healthy bulbs from your selected variety and separate them into individual cloves, leaving the papery skins intact.
2. Planting Depth: Plant the cloves 2 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up.
3. Spacing: Space the cloves 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
4. Watering: Water the garlic thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.

Planting in Spring

1. Select Varieties: Choose softneck varieties for spring planting, as they perform better in warmer temperatures.
2. Follow the same steps as for autumn planting, ensuring the soil is well-prepared.

Step 3: Caring for Garlic Plants

Proper care will ensure healthy garlic plants and a bountiful harvest.

1. Watering: Garlic requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Water the plants regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
2. Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Organic options like fish emulsion or compost tea can also be beneficial.
3. Weed Control: Keep the planting area free of weeds, as they compete for nutrients and moisture. Mulching can help suppress weed growth.
4. Pest and Disease Management: Garlic is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but watch for issues like aphids and fungal diseases. Implement crop rotation and maintain good garden hygiene to prevent problems.

Step 4: Harvesting Garlic

Garlic is typically ready to harvest in mid to late summer (June to August), depending on the variety and planting time.

1. Signs of Maturity: The leaves will start to yellow and die back, and the bulbs will feel firm when squeezed.
2. Harvesting Method: Use a garden fork or spade to gently lift the bulbs from the soil. Be careful not to damage the bulbs.
3. Curing Garlic: After harvesting, allow the garlic to cure in a dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for 2-3 weeks. This process helps enhance the flavor and extend storage life.

Step 5: Storing Garlic

Proper storage will ensure your garlic remains fresh and flavorful.

1. Hardneck Garlic: Store hardneck garlic in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. It typically lasts 4-6 months.
2. Softneck Garlic: Softneck garlic can be stored for up to a year when kept in a cool, dark, and dry location.
3. Braiding: Softneck garlic varieties can be braided for easy storage and aesthetic appeal. Simply gather the stems and braid them together, hanging the garlic in a cool, dry place.

Culinary Uses for Garlic

Garlic is an incredibly versatile ingredient that enhances the flavor of countless dishes. Here are some delicious ways to use garlic in your cooking:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables

Toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs, then roast them in the oven for a flavorful side dish.

2. Garlic Butter

Mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and lemon juice for a delicious garlic butter spread. Use it on bread, vegetables, or meats.

3. Garlic Soup

Create a comforting garlic soup by simmering garlic cloves with broth, onions, and cream. Blend until smooth for a creamy, rich dish.

4. Garlic Pasta

Sauté minced garlic in olive oil and toss with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for a quick and flavorful meal.

5. Pickled Garlic

Pickle garlic cloves in vinegar, herbs, and spices for a tangy addition to salads, sandwiches, or antipasto platters.

Conclusion

Growing garlic in the UK is a rewarding endeavor that offers not only the satisfaction of harvesting your own bulbs but also the chance to enjoy a range of flavors and health benefits. By understanding the differences between garlic varieties, following proper planting and care techniques, and exploring creative culinary uses, you can make the most of your garlic-growing experience.

Whether you choose to grow hardneck or softneck varieties, the key to success lies in selecting the right garlic for your conditions, providing proper care, and harvesting at the right time. With this comprehensive guide, you are now well-equipped to embark on your garlic-growing journey. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results in your kitchen!