- Select Quality Garlic Cloves: Start with healthy, disease-free garlic bulbs. Separate the cloves, making sure to keep the papery skin intact.
- Sort and Soak the Cloves: Examine the garlic cloves and set aside the largest ones for planting. The smaller cloves can be used for culinary purposes. Soak the selected cloves in warm water for a few hours or overnight. This step helps to soften the outer skin and activate the clove.
- Begin Pre-Sprouting: Lay the soaked cloves in a single layer on a shallow tray or a seedling flat. Make sure the pointed end (where the shoot will emerge) is facing up. Place the tray in a cool, dark place with good air circulation, such as a basement or garage.
- Maintain Proper Conditions: During the pre-sprouting process, keep an eye on the cloves to ensure they don’t dry out or rot. The ideal temperature for chitting garlic is around 50-60°F (10-15°C). It may take a few weeks for the cloves to develop green shoots, typically 1-2 inches in length.
- Plant the Pre-Sprouted Cloves: Once the shoots have reached an adequate length, it’s time to plant the cloves in your garden or containers. Make sure the shoots are still green and vibrant when planting. Bury them about 2 inches deep and space them 4-6 inches apart in rows.
- Maintain Proper Care: Continue to provide the garlic with adequate sunlight, water, and well-draining soil. Garlic grows best in full sun and prefers regular, even moisture.
- Harvest and Cure the Garlic: Harvest the garlic when the lower leaves turn yellow and start to die back, typically in late spring or early summer. Carefully dig up the bulbs and allow them to cure in a dry, well-ventilated place for several weeks.
- Prepare for Next Season: Save some of the largest and healthiest bulbs for planting in the next growing season. By repeating this process, you can maintain an ongoing supply of fresh garlic.
Advertisement:
