July, the date of this newsletter, is harvest time for garlic. It is also time for pre-planting time preparation, since ideal planting dates are September to continued November, depending on the area. Primary pre-planting considerations are seed selection or purchase, and site selection and preparation. Seed availability has, and continues to be, a major obstacle for those who want to enter or stay in the garlic business. Seed quality is critical to successful production, yet few sources of quality seed, especially the more specialty varieties, exist.
Earlier planting means higher yield potential.
September to November planting is optimum. Early spring planting is OK, but small bulbs will result. The size of bulbs harvested is directly related to the size of cloves planted and the spacing of the plants. Individual cloves do not keep long, due to disease susceptibility and desiccation. Avoid, prevent and control them.