How to Grow Garlic in Containers: From Clove to Bulb in 6 Simple Steps

Did you know that from just one garlic bulb, you can grow 10-15 new bulbs? It’s surprisingly easy to do and works well in containers – whether in the garden, on your balcony, or even indoors. This guide will show you exactly how, starting with simple cloves from your kitchen. And to make it even faster, we’ll teach you a unique water-rooting technique that accelerates growth, so you can enjoy fresh, homegrown garlic.

Ready to multiply your garlic supply? Let’s dive in and start growing!

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The Perfect Time to Start Growing Garlic

Garlic is best planted in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first hard frost, giving the cloves time to establish roots before winter dormancy. Ideal temperatures for early growth are between 32-50°F (0-10°C). This initial cool period strengthens root development, setting the stage for larger bulbs at harvest.

In areas with mild winters, early spring planting is also an option, although fall planting generally produces bigger, more robust garlic bulbs. For particularly warm regions that lack sufficient winter chill, cloves can be pre-chilled in the fridge for several weeks before planting to simulate the cold period garlic requires for optimal growth.

Preparing the Garlic Bulbs

The first step is choosing high-quality garlic bulbs, which come in two main types:

• Hardneck Garlic: Known for its strong, complex flavor and larger cloves, this type is ideal for colder climates and produces a central stalk, or “scape.” However, it has a shorter storage life.
• Softneck Garlic: With more, smaller cloves and a flexible stalk, softneck garlic is commonly found in grocery stores and has a longer shelf life, making it ideal for warmer areas.

Look for bulbs that feel firm, without any soft spots or mold.

Once selected, gently peel away the papery outer layers without separating the cloves entirely.

Then, with a clean knife, slice off about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) from the top of each clove, which encourages quicker sprouting in water.

Rooting the Garlic Cloves in Water

Now, it’s time to set up the cloves for rooting. If you have plastic bottles lying around, they’re perfect for a simple DIY rooting container:

1. Cut off the top part of a plastic bottle, leaving the bottom two-thirds. This will serve as the container.
2. Carefully insert 3-4 toothpicks around the garlic bulb, positioning them evenly to create a “stand.” This setup will keep the garlic bulb just above the water level, allowing only the base to make contact with the water for rooting without submerging the entire bulb.
3. Fill each container with enough water so only the bottom of each garlic bulb touches the water. Make sure they’re not fully submerged, as too much water can lead to rot.
4. Place the containers in a bright, sunny area with indirect light—a windowsill with ample light can be a great option. Refresh the water every 1-2 days to keep it clean and prevent bacteria buildup, which can affect root growth.

After just a few days, you’ll start seeing roots emerging from the base of the garlic bulb and green shoots at the top. When the roots reach about 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long, the garlic is ready for the next step of planting in soil.

Separating and Transplanting the Cloves to Soil

Begin by gently separating each clove from the garlic bulb. Select the largest, healthiest cloves for planting, as these will produce the strongest plants.

Next, choose a container or pot that’s at least 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter and has drainage holes to prevent water pooling, which can lead to root rot. Fill the container with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil, leaving a few inches of space from the top.

Dig small holes for each clove, spacing them about 4 inches (10 cm) apart to allow room for growth. Place each clove in a hole with its roots down, then cover lightly with soil, pressing gently to secure it.

After planting, water the soil thoroughly to help the cloves settle and encourage root establishment. Garlic thrives with consistent moisture, so make sure the soil remains slightly damp but not overly wet.

Fertilizing (Optional)

To boost growth, especially in containers, you may add a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every few weeks. Here’s how:

• Sprinkle a small amount of fertilizer around each clove, avoiding direct contact with the roots to prevent burning.
• After applying the fertilizer, water the soil to help distribute the nutrients evenly.

This step is optional, but a nutrient-rich soil blend can help improve garlic quality, especially when growing in pots where nutrients can deplete quickly.

Caring for Your Growing Garlic

With the garlic cloves now settled in soil, regular care will help them thrive. Here’s what to focus on:

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging, as garlic is sensitive to overly wet conditions.
• Sunlight: Garlic, like other fall vegetables such as beets, grows best in full sun, so place your container somewhere that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.
• Trimming Yellowing Leaves: As the plant grows, you may notice older leaves turning yellow. Trim them carefully to keep the plant’s energy directed toward healthy growth.

Garlic is generally pest-resistant, so it doesn’t require much attention in that regard. Simply monitor the soil moisture and light exposure to help it grow steadily.

Harvesting and Storing Your Garlic

Garlic is typically ready for harvest around 3-6 months after planting. You’ll know it’s time when the leaves begin to yellow and dry out from the bottom up. Here’s how to harvest and store it properly:

1. Loosen the Soil: Use a hand trowel to gently loosen the soil around each bulb, or carefully dig around the bulb with your hands. Lift the Bulbs Carefully: With the soil loosened, lift each bulb out of the ground, shaking off any excess soil. Be mindful not to pull from the stem, as it could separate from the bulb.
2. Cure the Garlic: For long-term storage, tie the bulbs in small bundles and hang them in a cool, well-ventilated area for about 2-3 weeks. This curing process toughens the outer skin and improves the storage life.
3. Storing Your Garlic: Once the garlic has cured, trim the stems and roots. Store the bulbs in a cool, dry, and dark place, like a pantry or cellar, where they can last for several months. Avoid plastic bags or containers that trap moisture, as this can lead to mold.

If you’re eager for a quicker harvest than garlic’s typical 3-6 month timeline, consider growing green onions from onion bulbs. Green onions provide a continuous yield throughout the season and are perfect for adding fresh flavors to your kitchen without the wait.

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