Q: I heard you talking about planting garlic. I want to try it! Can you please give more details?
A: I’m excited to do this in my garden as well! Don’t get too hung up about soft-neck vs. hard-neck. Soft-neck varieties may be best because according to UGA Extension this type, “can flourish through the erratic temperatures of southern winters.” Buy some, order it from catalogues, or simply buy a bulb at the store and let it sit in a dark pantry for a few weeks.
If you have the real estate to spare, plant at least 3-5 cloves so you can ensure that at least one takes! I mention space because you’ll plant them now or into October, and garlic will not be ready to harvest until May or June, so be patient! Plant the cloves in well-draining soil where they’ll receive full sun. Place unpeeled cloves pointed end UP about 1-3 inches deep and 6″ apart. As with any crop, make sure they receive adequate moisture, and mulching is always a good idea!
Again, be patient with this crop, and start to watch for May, June or even July when the foliage starts to turn brown and flop over. Be careful when loosening bulbs from the dirt.