How to Grow Garlic in Pots Successfully at Home
Learning how to grow garlic in pots is an excellent option for gardeners who have limited space or prefer container gardening. Garlic is one of the easiest crops to grow, and it adapts well to pots as long as it receives the right care. Whether you live in an apartment, have a small balcony, or simply want more control over soil conditions, growing garlic in containers allows you to enjoy fresh, homegrown bulbs without needing a traditional garden bed.
This article explains how to grow garlic in pots, covering everything from selecting cloves to harvesting and storing your garlic.
-
Garlic Growth in Containers
Before planting garlic in pots, it is important to understand how garlic grows and what it needs to thrive in containers. Garlic grows underground and requires enough depth and space to form healthy bulbs.
Key points to understand include:
- Garlic prefers cool weather during early growth
- Each clove grows into one full bulb
- Container depth directly affects bulb size
- Garlic needs several months to mature
Knowing these basics helps you plan properly and avoid common mistakes.
-
Choose the Right Garlic for Planting
The type of garlic you choose plays a role in your success. Using healthy cloves ensures better growth and stronger plants.
When selecting garlic:
- Use fresh, firm garlic cloves
- Choose organic garlic if possible
- Avoid cloves treated to prevent sprouting
- Select larger cloves for larger bulbs
Each clove should be planted separately with the pointed end facing upward.
-
Select the Right Pot and Container Size
Pot size is crucial when growing garlic in containers. Shallow or crowded pots can limit bulb development.
Ideal container features include:
- A depth of at least eight to ten inches
- Good drainage holes at the bottom
- Enough width to space cloves properly
- Durable material that can withstand weather changes
Proper drainage prevents waterlogging and root rot.
-
Prepare the Best Soil for Garlic
Garlic grows best in loose, well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Heavy or compact soil can restrict bulb growth.
Soil preparation tips include:
- Using a quality potting mix
- Adding compost or well-rotted manure
- Mixing in sand or perlite for drainage
- Avoiding overly acidic soil
Healthy soil supports strong root development and bulb formation.
-
Plant Garlic Correctly in Pots
Proper planting technique ensures healthy growth from the start.
Planting steps include:
- Planting cloves about two inches deep
- Spacing cloves four to six inches apart
- Placing the pointed end facing upward
- Covering lightly with soil and watering gently
Once planted, place the pot in a sunny location.
-
Provide Proper Watering and Sunlight
Garlic needs consistent care throughout its growing period.
Key care practices include:
- Watering when the top soil feels dry
- Avoiding overwatering
- Providing at least six hours of sunlight daily
- Rotating the pot occasionally for even light exposure
Balanced watering and sunlight promote healthy leaf and bulb growth.
-
Feed and Maintain Garlic Plants
Garlic benefits from light feeding during its growth cycle.
Maintenance tips include:
- Applying a balanced fertilizer in early growth
- Removing weeds from the pot
- Mulching to retain moisture
- Monitoring for pests and diseases
Healthy leaves indicate that the bulbs are developing well underground.
-
Harvest Garlic at the Right Time
Harvesting at the correct time ensures good flavor and storage quality.
Signs garlic is ready to harvest include:
- Lower leaves turning yellow or brown
- Upper leaves remaining green
- Firm soil around the bulb
Gently loosen the soil and lift the bulbs without damaging them.
-
Cure and Store Your Garlic Properly
After harvesting, garlic needs to be cured to improve flavor and shelf life.
Curing tips include:
- Drying garlic in a shaded, well-ventilated area
- Allowing several weeks for curing
- Trimming roots and stalks after drying
- Storing in a cool, dry place
Proper curing helps garlic last for months.
Also Read: How to Grow an Apricot Tree from a Seed