Growing garlic in pots is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh, home-grown garlic without needing a large garden space.
Garlic is not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
With just a little bit of know-how, you can grow your own garlic like a pro—even in a small space.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about growing garlic in pots.
From choosing the right container to harvesting your garlic bulbs, this guide will help you achieve a successful garlic harvest right at home.
Choosing the Right Type of Garlic
The first step to successful garlic growing is choosing the right type of garlic.
There are two main types of garlic: hardneck and softneck.
Each type has its own advantages and may be better suited to your growing conditions.
Hardneck garlic produces a flowering stalk called a “scape” and typically has a stronger flavor.
This variety does well in colder climates, making it a good choice for northern areas.
Softneck garlic doesn’t produce a scape and has a milder taste.
It also stores longer than hardneck varieties and grows well in warmer regions.
If you’re in a warmer climate, softneck garlic may be the way to go.
Choosing the right type based on your climate will help your garlic thrive and produce the best flavor.
Selecting the Perfect Container
Garlic needs plenty of space to grow, so selecting the right container is essential.
Choose a pot that’s at least 10 to 12 inches deep, as garlic roots need room to spread.
A container with a diameter of 12 to 16 inches can hold several garlic cloves, giving you a larger harvest.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes, as garlic does not like to sit in soggy soil.
Terra cotta pots are a great choice because they allow excess moisture to escape, which helps prevent root rot.
If you’re using plastic or ceramic pots, ensure they have good drainage, or consider adding a layer of gravel at the bottom.
Choosing a container with enough depth and drainage is key to growing healthy garlic.
Preparing the Soil for Garlic
Garlic thrives in rich, well-draining soil, so preparing the soil correctly will set you up for success.
Use a high-quality potting mix and add some compost or aged manure to enrich the soil.
Garlic prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
You can add a handful of bone meal or fish meal to the soil, as garlic benefits from extra phosphorus.
Avoid using garden soil, as it can become compacted in pots, which limits root growth.
Well-prepared soil allows garlic roots to access the nutrients they need for strong, flavorful bulbs.
Planting Garlic Cloves in Pots
Now that you have your pot and soil ready, it’s time to plant your garlic cloves.
Start by selecting large, healthy cloves from an organic garlic bulb.
Avoid using grocery store garlic, as it’s often treated to prevent sprouting.
Separate the bulb into individual cloves, but keep the papery skin on each clove.
Place the cloves pointy end up, spacing them about 4 inches apart.
Push each clove about 2 inches deep into the soil, covering it completely.
Be careful not to press the cloves too hard, as this can damage them.
Once you’ve planted the cloves, gently water the soil to help settle it around the garlic.
Spacing your garlic properly and planting it at the right depth will help ensure healthy growth.
Watering Your Garlic Plants
Garlic needs consistent moisture to grow well, but overwatering can lead to problems.
Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
The best way to check if your garlic needs water is to stick your finger about an inch into the soil.
If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead, as garlic does not like wet leaves.
In the early stages of growth, garlic requires more frequent watering.
As the plants mature, reduce watering slightly, especially as harvest time approaches.
Consistent, even watering will help garlic develop larger, more flavorful bulbs.
Providing the Right Amount of Sunlight
Garlic loves sunlight and needs at least 6 to 8 hours of full sun each day to grow well.
Place your pot in a sunny spot, like a south-facing patio, balcony, or windowsill.
If you’re growing garlic indoors, make sure it’s near a bright window, or consider using a grow light.
Without enough sunlight, garlic may grow weak and fail to produce large bulbs.
If you notice your garlic looking leggy or pale, it may need more light.
Giving your garlic ample sunlight will encourage strong, healthy growth and a bountiful harvest.
Fertilizing Garlic for Better Growth
Garlic benefits from regular feeding to support bulb growth and development.
About a month after planting, you can start fertilizing your garlic with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
Fish emulsion or a liquid seaweed fertilizer are excellent organic options that are gentle on garlic.
Feed your garlic every three to four weeks during the growing season.
As the garlic bulbs start to mature in late spring, reduce the frequency of fertilizing.
Over-fertilizing can lead to lush foliage at the expense of bulb size, so be mindful of your feeding schedule.
Proper fertilization will help your garlic produce robust, flavorful bulbs.
Caring for Garlic as it Grows
Garlic is relatively low-maintenance, but a few simple steps can make a big difference in its growth.
Keep the area around your garlic free of weeds, as weeds compete for nutrients and water.
Adding a layer of mulch, like straw or shredded leaves, can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Garlic may also benefit from a little extra phosphorus in early spring to encourage strong root development.
As the season progresses, you’ll notice the garlic foliage growing tall and green.
If you’re growing hardneck garlic, it will produce a flower stalk, or “scape,” in late spring.
Trimming the scape will encourage the plant to put energy into the bulb instead of the flower.
A bit of simple care throughout the season will lead to healthier plants and larger garlic bulbs.
Harvesting Garlic at the Right Time
Knowing when to harvest your garlic is key to getting the best flavor and storage life.
Garlic is usually ready to harvest in midsummer, about 7 to 8 months after planting.
One sign that garlic is ready for harvest is when the lower leaves start to turn yellow and die back.
When about half of the leaves are yellow, it’s time to check your garlic bulbs.
Gently dig around the bulbs to see if they’ve reached a good size.
Avoid pulling the garlic by the leaves, as this can damage the bulbs.
Once the garlic is ready, carefully lift it from the soil, shake off any excess dirt, and let it dry in a shaded area.
Proper harvesting and drying are essential for long-lasting, flavorful garlic.
Curing and Storing Your Garlic
After harvesting, garlic needs to be cured to extend its storage life and deepen its flavor.
Lay the garlic bulbs in a single layer in a well-ventilated, dry area out of direct sunlight.
Allow them to cure for two to three weeks until the outer skin feels dry and papery.
Once the garlic is fully cured, trim the roots and cut back the leaves to about an inch above the bulb.
Store your cured garlic in a cool, dark place with good air circulation, like a pantry or cellar.
Avoid storing garlic in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can cause it to sprout.
Properly cured and stored garlic can last for several months, providing you with fresh garlic all year round.
Troubleshooting Common Garlic Growing Issues
While garlic is generally hardy, a few common issues can arise during the growing season.
Yellowing leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiency, so consider adding a balanced fertilizer if needed.
If the leaves show spots or discoloration, it could be a fungal disease, especially in humid climates.
To prevent fungal problems, make sure your garlic gets good airflow and avoid wetting the leaves when watering.
Another common issue is bulb rot, which can occur if the soil is too wet.
If you notice soft or mushy bulbs, reduce your watering and ensure the pot has proper drainage.
By keeping an eye on these potential problems, you can take steps to keep your garlic healthy and strong.
Final Thoughts
Growing garlic in pots is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy fresh garlic right at home.
With the right pot, soil, and care, your garlic will thrive and produce flavorful bulbs that elevate your cooking.
Avoiding common mistakes and following these expert tips will help you get the best results.
Whether you have a sunny balcony or a small patio, you can grow garlic like a pro and enjoy the harvest for months to come.
Give it a try, and you’ll soon have your own supply of home-grown garlic, ready to add flavor to any dish.
Happy garlic growing!