Elephant Garlic (Autumn Or Spring Planting)

Plant garlic in rows in any well drained soil in full sun. It is important that the soil does not become waterlogged so incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost to improve drainage and feed the soil. On particularly heavy soils, grow garlic in raised beds. Carefully split the bulb into individual cloves. Plant each clove with the pointed end facing upwards at a depth of 2cm (1″) below the surface of the soil. Garlic cloves should be spaced 10cm (4″) apart, leaving 45cm (18″) between each row.

Weed rows of garlic regularly. Garlic is undemanding and will only require watering during particularly dry periods. Harvest garlic from July, when the leaves begin to turn yellow, by loosening them from the ground with a trowel. Gently wash and dry garlic bulbs, then place them in a warm dry position to dry out, prior to storing them. Bulbs can then be stored in good condition for up to 3 months.