Growing guide

Your seed garlic growing guide

Seed garlic planting guide: timing, density and varieties


Our advice for a successful crop


A successful garlic crop starts with choosing a variety suited to the planting period, the climate and the characteristics of the field.

For professional production, certified seed garlic provides identified, traceable planting material. Planting it in good conditions contributes to even emergence and uniform bulb development.

This guide covers the main stages of the crop: choosing the planting period, preparing the soil, planting, crop care, irrigation, harvesting and storage.

How to plant garlic?


Split the heads into cloves as close to planting as possible.

Each clove is planted tip up. For professional production, a depth of around 5 cm is a good starting point, to be adjusted to the soil and the equipment used.

Planting density and seed garlic requirements

Seed garlic planting density and seed requirement

Which soil for growing garlic?


Garlic needs loose, well-drained soil. Prolonged waterlogging, especially in winter, can compromise the crop. On fields that drain poorly, planting on ridges can be considered.

Before planting, soil preparation should allow even planting:
  • Drainage: avoid areas where water stands for long periods.
  • Structure: aim for loose soil with no marked compaction.
  • Soil condition: work the field once it has dried out sufficiently.
  • Preparation: make sure the ground is level and fine enough for the planter.

When and how to harvest garlic?


The harvest date depends on the variety, the planting date and the weather. For garlic intended for storage, yellowing and drying of the foliage are the indicators to watch in the field.

The stage should be confirmed by checking the bulbs: harvesting too early limits their development, while harvesting too late can harm their appearance and storage.

After lifting, handle the bulbs carefully and quickly arrange for them to dry with good ventilation. Then sort the bulbs before storage, discarding any that are damaged or diseased.

Other questions about growing seed garlic?

Does garlic need watering?

Garlic needs water mainly during its active growth phase and while the bulbs are swelling. However, excess moisture should be avoided, especially in winter, as garlic prefers well-drained soils. In spring, a prolonged lack of water can limit bulb development. As harvest approaches, watering is generally reduced to encourage ripening.

How to fertilise a garlic crop?

Fertilisation should be adapted to the soil, the previous crop and the production goals. A soil analysis helps you know which nutrients are already available. It is best to avoid excessive applications and to base fertilisation on the actual needs of the field.

How to look after a garlic crop?

The field should be checked regularly to limit weed competition and quickly spot any problems. Particular attention should be paid to drainage, the condition of the foliage and the uniformity of the crop.

How to choose your seed garlic?

The choice of seed garlic depends on the planting period, the climate, the soil type, the earliness you are looking for and your market outlet. It is also important to compare the characteristics of white, purple and pink garlic varieties before preparing the season.

Why use certified seed garlic?

Certified seed garlic lets you work with identified, traceable planting material. For professional growers, this makes it easier to track lots and identify precisely the varieties planted.

How to store garlic after harvest?

After drying and sorting, the bulbs should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated place. Damaged or defective bulbs should be removed before storage to preserve the quality of the lots.

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