Garlic garlic Garlic is a hardy Allium grown primarily from cloves. Softneck types (braidable, good storage) and hardneck types (produce edible scapes, better cold tolerance) both perform well in cool climates. Autumn planting is standard in cold regions for larger bulbs; spring planting is possible if cloves have vernalized (at least 30–60 days below 10°C). Garlic prefers full sun, fertile, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture without waterlogging. In Sweden, it overwinters reliably in zones 1–7 with mulch. Expect plant height 30–60 cm, with scapes on hardneck types reaching higher. Growing conditions LightFull sun (6–8+ hours of direct light). Soil typeWell-drained loam or sandy loam enriched with mature compost; avoid heavy, waterlogged clay. Water requirementModerate. Keep evenly moist during establishment and bulb formation; reduce watering 2 weeks before harvest. Nutrient requirementMedium. Nitrogen early for leaf growth, then balanced nutrition; avoid fresh manure. Back to plant list
