Lots of lawn and garden projects and tasks are typically done in September. One of these is planting garlic. I have grown to love planting garlic probably because not only is it very tasty it is also very easy to grow. It may be one of the easiest vegetables to grow. Planting garlic (Allium sativum) in the fall allows the cloves to go through a chilling period which is important for bulb and flower growth. October is a good time to plant because the cloves can begin to develop roots and shoots before freezing weather arrives.
Purchase large, mature garlic bulbs from a reputable grower rather than the grocery store. Separate the bulb into individual cloves just before planting. Larger cloves tend to yield larger bulbs at harvest. Mix three pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet into the soil prior to planting. If a soil test is available, fertilize according to those recommendations. Plant each clove one to two-inches deep spaced six-inches apart with the pointed end of the clove up. Water the cloves in well and apply a layer of mulch to insulate the soil.
Bulbs should be ready to harvest next summer when the lower third of the foliage is yellow. Carefully dig one area to check the bulbs for maturity. The bulbs are ready for harvest when the cloves are beginning to separate.
Kansas’ climate is suitable for growing a variety of garlic types. Elephant garlic (Allium ampeloprasum) has a milder garlic flavor. Varieties of Allium sativum that are good options include: Inchelium Red, Chesnok Red, Armenian, Music, Purple Glazer, Carpathian Mountain, Metechi, China Strip, Ajo Rojo, Asian Tempest and Silver White.
