Most growers handle their own seed stocks. Cloves should be planted with the growing point just below the soil surface. This means the base will be from 1 to 2 inches below the surface. Leek seed should be planted approximately 0.25 to 0.5 inch deep, and transplants should be planted at the same depth they were growing in the greenhouse. Although winter crops generally have reduced insect pressure compared with crops produced during the spring, summer or fall, garlic and leek should be scouted regularly for potential insect problems.
Early spring is the most likely time to encounter insect pests in winter vegetables.
If an insect pest problem arises, consult your local county Extension agent for the best method of control. Diseases can be a particular problem with winter crops because of rainy, humid weather conditions. Regular applications of protective sprays are recommended to protect garlic and leek from bacterial and fungal diseases that can occur throughout the production season. Check with your local county Extension agent for recommended chemical application programs to control diseases in these crops. Generally, under conditions favorable to disease development, broad-spectrum fungicide sprays will have to be applied every seven days.