This is usually based on leaf tissue analysis throughout the season. Applications of nitrogen are stopped before the initiation of bulbing to avoid problems with side-shooting. Irrigation is essential to ensure the plants are never stressed for water. The supply of water to the plant is stopped as the bulb reaches maturity. Watering at this stage often causes staining and can lead to storage problems.
Weed control is important and is initiated with a pre-emergent herbicide.
This allows the plants to become established without too much competition. Regular applications for both broad leaf and grass weeds are required throughout the season. Viruses are inherent in garlic and often expressed when other factors cause difficulties for the plant. Virus is usually a symptom of another problem, rather than the problem itself. This can be contained by optimising management practices.