Indigenous landscaping & garden design
in Johannesburg & Pretoria, South Africa

How to plant garlic

  • How to plant garlic

    Some quick tips on how to plant garlic!

    Garlic is a wonderfully fragrant herb to add to many cooked dishes.  It has numerous health benefits, acts as an antibiotic, helps with chest infections, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure and prevents strokes by thinning the blood.

    Garlic has a specific planting window from mid-February to the end of March. For best results one should use organically grown garlic.

    How to plant garlic:

    • Prepare the planting area in a spot that will drain freely and receive at least 6 hours of sunshine
    • Enrich the soil with well-rotted compost
    • Break up a head of garlic into individual cloves
    • Push the cloves into the soil with the tip of the clove pointing upward, to a depth of three times the length (about 5cm deep)
    • Plant the cloves 15-20cm apart
    • Firm down gently
    • Cover with a layer of mulch
    • Keep moist but don’t overwater
    • Shoots should start pushing through the mulch within 4-8 weeks of planting
    • Garlic can also be planted in pots filled with a quality potting soil.

    Growing tips

    • Foliar feed with a kelp-based plant food once a month from September to November
    • Remove flower stalks as they affect the quality of the bulbs

    Harvesting

    • It is time to harvest when the leaves turn yellow-brown, usually within 6 months
    • Gently dig out the bulbs, tie them in bunches and hang them in a cool, dry, well-aerated room for about 4-6 weeks to cure

    If you’re living in the Southern hemisphere, February to April is the ideal time to plant garlic, so go out there and plant your own garlic!

    49 comments on “How to plant garlic”

    1. Thak you for the information. I live in Pietermaritzbug KZN and have planted garlic as per your advice . Shoots already protruded.

      1. Hi Sidney

        You can certainly experiment with planting in November in a shaded area and you may have some success. However,however the ideal time to plant garlic is February - April in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunshine.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    2. Hi,
      I am on the north coast in KZN, La Mercy to be exact and have about 1/2 hectare available and am really keen to start growing garlic.
      Is the conditions favorable this close to the ocean and when is the ideal time to start?

      1. Hi Lourinda

        You'd have to check whether your soil conditions are suitable.

        Perhaps check with the Garlic Grower's Association for additional information specific to your area.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

      1. Hi Sean

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        If you're planting on a large scale, it's best to follow planting guidelines regarding the timing.

        For domestic purposes, you can try to plant in August but accept that you may not be successful.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    3. Hi is the Karoo suitable for garlic. When would be the best time to plant? What is the best tipe of soil and how much water, firtelizers and pesticides does garlic need.

      1. Hi Wilhelmien

        It would be best for you to contact the Garlic Grower's Association if you're considering growing garlic commercially.

        The advice here is for home-owners.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    4. Hi I have planted 2Hectors of garlic for the first time, they did well but not that big. Is there any manure/fertilizer that I can use during growing time (6 Months) to make them big bulb, Iam having challenge of selling them , if yes please advice. Iam from Limpopo, Louis Trichardt/Makhado

      1. Hi Florence

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        It would be best to get your soil tested and contact the Garlic Grower's Association for further advice.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

          1. Hi James

            Thanks for visiting our site.

            The advice here is for domestic gardeners. It's best for you to contact the Garlic Grower's Association for commercial growing advice.

            Flourish!
            Glenice

    5. Hi I'm Isaac I'm staying in Kagiso Krugersdorp area I just want to know if the area is suitable for growing garlic this time of the year, or during rainy season please advice how to water garlic

      1. Hi Isaac

        Yes, garlic can be grown in your area. It is best to plant it in May and it requires moderate watering.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    6. I am from Eswatini ian interested in growing garlic. Where can I get the garlic bulbs in bags that are ready to be planted. What is the nearest place to us Eswatini to purchase these seeds? Please help out.

    7. Is it too late to plant garlic? I am in Cape Town and have been given some beautiful elephant garlic.

      1. Hi Christina

        You should be able to still plant your garlic. Enjoy the beautiful rains.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    8. Hi

      I have 4 hectares land in the Free state,Frankford district,on the banks of the Vaaldam. Used to grow mielies and potatoes in the soil.
      Will garlic grow in that climate,taking it gets very cold during the night in that area?

      1. Hi Roelf

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        Garlic can generally handle frost and very cold winters. You'll need to check your micro-climate and perhaps seek assistance from the Garlic Growers' Association.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    9. Hi.
      In Durban today 02-04-19 I've just planted 25 garlic cloves from *** (supplier name removed). *** is a reputable bulb company but I'm worried about the size of the bulbs, too small for my liking. Can they surprise my by giving me bigger bulbs, is the date above correct for planting.
      Thanks.

      1. Hi Cyfoh

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        You've planted your garlic at the right time and sourced your bulbs from a reputable supplier. However, there are over 600 garlic varieties and each is selected for different properties such as size, flavour, number of cloves, colour etc. Large cloves produce large bulbs. Next season, you could perhaps try a different variety by sourcing your growing stock elsewhere.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    10. i stay in Koppies and iur soil is typical clay. I want to grow garlic next season is the soil ideal for garlic?
      Can i use cow manure?
      Glenda

      1. Hi Glenda

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        Garlic usually fairs better in a loam soil. However, some growers do succeed with clay soil, but I'd recommend the addition of organic material which will help to condition the soil and allow it to drain more freely.

        Cow manure is a good additive for the soil, but ensure that it is well-rotted before applying.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

      1. Hi Louis

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        Sorry, we can't assist you. Perhaps an agricultural body can assist you.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    11. Hi Glenice

      I have recently bought a bag of garlic. Some of the individual cloves are very small and thin and a hassle to peel. I was told that these can be kept for planting. Can I keep them to dry and plant Them in February. I live in Pretoria and it’s very hot at the moment, over 30 degrees.

      Also, can they be planted now in November?

      Thank you
      Rezana

      1. Hi Rezana

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        I believe that the best garlic to grow is from the larger bulbs as the resultant plants will resemble the parent plant with large cloves

        When presented with tiny cloves, I simply crush the unpeeled cloves with a garlic crusher and only the flesh comes out. Some of the flesh will remain in the crusher, but the time and saved is worth it.

        Garlic cloves should be fleshy, not dry when planted out. The planting window is between February and March. However, on a domestic level, you could try planting them out now and perhaps you may be lucky.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    12. Good day.

      We are a registered Cooperative and and very much interested in farming. We have land in Onderstepoort and Rustenburg. We need more information on farming garlic and Butternut.

      Your help with information and training would be much appreciated.

      Regard
      Emelda Jood

    13. Hello Glenice,
      I have some garlic bulbs which for me are delicious, so strong that they burn.
      I would like to try and grow some myself. I live in Hillcrest, Kwazulu Natal. Can I plant now? Our temperatures never go below 9 degrees C. And average a high of 20 degrees C at the moment until beginning of December.
      Thanks
      Kim

      1. Hi Kim

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        The growing conditions in KZN are excellent so give it a go.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    14. I stay in Willowvale in the Eastern Cape about 30km from the sea. I would like to start a business of growing garlic . Is the area right for that kind of business.

      1. Hi Nyameka

        You'll have to find out more about the growing conditions in your area (Soil, climate, water, etc.) then speak to the Garlic Growers's Association for advice.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    15. Hi, we live in the lower Free State on the border of the Eastern Cape Northern Cape, near Colesberg in a town called Bethulie. Very cold here currently but good sunny days with summer rain fall.
      Is it too late now to plant garlic bulbs?

      Regards,
      Deon

      1. Hi Deon

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        You're too late for planting this season. However, now is a great time to start planning for next year and searching for suppliers of cloves which can be purchased from August.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    16. We recently plant about 3/4 of ha garlic. We did not plant the garlic in a upright position. Will it have a impact on the garlic bulbs.

      1. Hi Danie

        Thanks for visiting our site.

        Oops, that's quite a large area to make that mistake!

        Your garlic may still grow. However, the plants will be unnecessarily stressed and may eventually die.

        All the best for the next season.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

      1. Hi Sikhumbuzo

        You'd have to do some market research. The garlic grower's association may be able to help with this.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

      1. Hi Kenneth

        A rewarding plant that's in high demand.

        There's lots of information on the internet.

        Also check for your local garlic grower's association.

        Flourish!
        Glenice

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Follow us on Instagram

  • Testimonials

    • Penny Allen, BroadacresPenny Allen, Broadacres

      Having had Glenice create a garden from scratch for my daughter to helping me with my garden on several occasions I cannot speak highly enough of her and her team. Glenice has a real understanding and love for the work she does and it SHOWS !! She has taught me a lot which adds to the overall appreciation of one’s unique space and opens one’s eyes to little aspects of nature that previously were not in one’s awareness. We need more of her in our world. She is an asset to nature.

      Read More
    • Carel Robinson, RandburgCarel Robinson, Randburg

      Excellent client service. Glenice is focused to deliver a complete service to her clients. Attention to small details was done to the T.

      Read More
    • Charmaine Lack, WendywoodCharmaine Lack, Wendywood

      Glenice, Ryan and the team are absolutely superb! They are professional, efficient and always provide excellent service! My garden is now a safe haven because of them! Thank you so much Glenice, Ryan and the team!

      Read More
    • Julia Blitz, MooikloofJulia Blitz, Mooikloof

      It is no surprise that this is an award winning company. It has been an absolute pleasure doing business with them as well as watching them work on my garden landscaping and planting. This is a professional team that works together, is passionate about the work that they do, and understands indigenous ecology at a deep systems level. I look forward to watching my new bushveld garden establish itself - the birds and butterflies are already appreciating it!
      I highly recommend this company and look forward to their maintenance visits over the forthcoming years.

      Read More
    • Kathy & Peter Strehler, Wilro ParkKathy & Peter Strehler, Wilro Park

      Once again thanks so much for all your hard work last week on our garden makeover. Your layout, plant selection and advice are appreciated and especially thanks for just being the special person you are. We are thrilled with the result and can’t wait to watch everything grow up and grow tall and lush.

      Read More
    • Steven Green, GreenstoneSteven Green, Greenstone

      I was truly blown away by the service, in my experience there are very few companies now days that do as they say, not only was the job completed earlier than estimated but little things such as sourcing paint for the walling and replacing broken walkway steps from the original manufacturer were sourced and delivered within a few hours. I was expecting to have to do it myself. I can definitely recommend this company to anyone for all landscaping requirements, by far the best service provider I have dealt with in a very long time. Thank you Ryan and Glenice it was a pleasure working with you!

      Read More
    • Derek Tedder, SandownDerek Tedder, Sandown

      I was very lucky to come across Grounded landscaping; it was an absolute pleasure to deal with people where the client comes first! From the first discussion to the finishing off, the service was great and nothing was too much. The knowledge and suggestions were first class and the results speak for themselves, very happy ????

      Read More
    • Christelle Dunn, Highlands NorthChristelle Dunn, Highlands North

      Glenice really listened to our specific needs for the garden. We wanted a simple, low-maintenance garden with indigenous plants and a French look. Glenice delivered on all our requirements! She carefully considered all aspects of the garden and gave us regular feedback during the installation process. She also left us with a maintenance plan. Very professional service!

      Read More
    • Mike & Irina, BryanstonMike & Irina, Bryanston

      We found Grounded Landscaping on the internet and we were really satisfied with service provided from the initial planning consultation, through to site work and after sale services. The whole team was professional, hard working and extremely reliable. Ryan Ebedes kept us informed of the progress and any difficulties were dealt with ensuring minimum delay to the project. The whole project was implemented in an efficient way, with outstanding quality, stuck to the budget and schedule outlined from the beginning. As we were away from home, the after sale services provided by the team were really appreciated. We can definitely recommend your services in future to our friends and wish you much success with the business!

      Read More
    • Lindy-Ann & John CunhaLindy-Ann & John Cunha

      For anyone looking to redo their garden and entertainment area, I can’t recommend Grounded Landscaping enough. They are an award-winning Johannesburg based landscaping company, headed up by Glenice Ebedes. They specialise in indigenous gardens, and focus on quality and attention to detail.

      Glenice and her partner Ryan make the most amazing team. They are so kind and gentle but fiercely professional too. They are uber efficient and super talented. Last year we briefed Glenice to design a beautiful but low maintenance garden for us, and right off the bat, we were impressed.

      I have never had a garden before and my green thumb is more a consequence of painting than gardening, so I really didn’t know where to start. Our designs were presented as professional layout renderings with full descriptions and explanations for the flowers chosen and trees selected. So much thought went into what plants would go where and why.

      Fast forward 6 months and our little Eden has really begun to take hold and flourish. I am so very proud of our beautiful garden and spend as much time in it as humanly possible. It has been perfectly designed as low maintenance as requested and as Glenice put it so perfectly, “this garden has been created for the birds, bees and butterflies” and I couldn’t be happier.

      *excerpt from https://itsacolourfulworld.com/2019/03/18/grounded-landscaping-gauteng/

      Read More
    • Kimon & Shernon Triantafillou, BedfordviewKimon & Shernon Triantafillou, Bedfordview

      The entire process from initial consultation through to installation and post sales was excellent! Very professional and would highly recommend Grounded Landscaping.

      Read More
    • Kamanie Moodley, MidrandKamanie Moodley, Midrand

      From day one..from the initial meeting with Glenice, to the design stage and finally the installation; the entire process was hassle free and smooth sailing. It's exactly what I wanted - a hands on person who took charge at every stage to ensure her team were on track and keeping to design needs.

      Glenice was on site the entire time, keeping to deadlines; and always on time which is so unusual in this line of work. Her hands on approach and eagle's eye for attention to detail gave me alot of confidence. I have learnt so much from Glenice, in terms of what works for a garden and she has challenged my thinking on a few topics. I love her passion for indigenous planting as well as creating a space that attracts wildlife. I put in my first sisal nesting log last week; and waiting patiently now for barbets to occupy the nest. Thanks to Glenice for that! Next is the bee hotel!

      Ryan, her husband helped us with advice on the irrigation system so we have more efficient watering.
      They are a perfect team, listening attentively to the client's needs and patiently giving advise.

      Phase 1 of my garden is done. Now I can't wait for Phase 2 to begin!

      I highly recommend Grounded Landscaping to transform your garden into a haven. God knows, we all need something to revive our spirits during this Lockdown.

      Read More
    • Keith Coyne, Property ConsultantKeith Coyne, Property Consultant

      I think this should be used as a show garden to other residents with practical use of space by planting mainly indigenous species that will not get too big for the space and the limited use of exotic species intermixed with good herbs and veggies.

      Read More
    • Alex Dohm, FerndaleAlex Dohm, Ferndale

      Thank you to Ryan and his team for our garden makeover! From the word go, Ryan was professional, punctual and so easy to work with. He always made sure to take our ideas and requests on board while adding his knowledge, creativity and experience to ensure a superb end result. Our questions were always answered promptly and advice was always just an email away. Ryan constantly supervised his team during the project and delivered exactly what was promised. We would highly recommend Grounded Landscaping.

      Read More
    • Andrew & Melanie, WoodmeadAndrew & Melanie, Woodmead

      We have done extensive renovating and building in the past and I can honestly say that Grounded Landscaping provided us with by far the most professional and knowledgeable service yet. It’s easily apparent that Ryan and Glenice are passionate about what they do and this translates into a beautiful and considered final product. We love our garden renovation and the fire pit. The team working with Ryan was courteous, polite and hardworking. Ryan was on site all the time (unheard of with most jobs) and was always obliging and happy to help and give advice. This is a wonderful group of people who we couldn’t recommend more highly.

      Read More
    • Natalie Skoutellas, BedfordviewNatalie Skoutellas, Bedfordview

      From the moment I contacted Grounded Landscaping I received professional yet personal service from Glenice. Upon our first meeting I knew I could trust Glenice to give me the look & feel I wanted & I was right. Glenice goes the extra mile to make sure you’re happy. When she saw I had small kids eager to play outside, she pushed her team to work faster. We ended up needing extra work done like piping, drainage & irrigation & yet the job was completed before the time she initially quoted us on.
      Thank you guys so much. You’re an amazing team. My garden looks awesome.

      Read More
    • Vida Opperman, EdenburgVida Opperman, Edenburg

      Ryan, Glenice and team turned my messy overgrown hell scape into a grasslands oasis. Thank you for giving a bit of nature in the middle of Sandton...

      Read More
    • Leila Akahloun, AthollLeila Akahloun, Atholl

      Ryan and Glenice are experts at indigenous gardens. They provide designs and costings up front and are great thought partners on garden design. They manage a highly professional crew and they were quick , cost effective and efficient. I highly recommend their services. Top notch professionals!

      Read More
    • Eric & Amelia Kleijn, ParktownEric & Amelia Kleijn, Parktown

      We would like to place on record our sincere thanks and gratitude for the outstanding service we received from Grounded Landscaping. The enthusiasm displayed by all your staff was a delight. It was so refreshing to work with knowledgeable people who clearly love what they do; and more importantly, are very good at what they do.

      We have no hesitation in recommending Grounded Landscaping. They genuinely care about their work and take great pride in it. And it shows! May they grow from strength to strength!

      All good wishes,

      Read More
    • Janice Walker, FairlandJanice Walker, Fairland

      Working with Grounded Landscaping was just a wonderful experience all round. My beautiful indigenous garden is just over a year old and gives me daily joy. Ditching the lawn was the best decision I ever made! Grounded Landscaping still provides support, as and when I need it. Glenice is the consummate professional with oodles of knowledge and experience. I thoroughly recommend this company

      Read More
    • Candi Smith, LonehillCandi Smith, Lonehill

      It has been an honour to meet Glenice, Ryan and the Grounded Landscaping team who have completely transformed my garden into the most joyful and serene space with beauty and interest around every corner. Glenice has an inspirational passion and knowledge for gardens, wildlife and the environment and working with Ryan and the team, provided a very professional end to service from the garden design and installation of plants, hard landscaping, lights, veggie garden and a water feature. Glenice and Ryan share their vast knowledge and experience to educate people on the plants, animals and insects that share and enjoy the garden, with interesting and relevant advice on how to care for it. This was more than a project; it has been a fascinating and exciting experience. I highly recommend Grounded Landscaping to anyone looking to transform their home and environment.

      Read More
    • Gordon & Sue Morrison, The Bush House, Madikwe Game ReserveGordon & Sue Morrison, The Bush House, Madikwe Game Reserve

      Glenice, Ryan and the team from Grounded Landscaping have been an absolute pleasure to work with from start to finish. Bearing in mind we are in the middle of a game reserve and so far away from Johannesburg, the planning and execution has been exemplary. In the seven days they were with us Glenice and Ryan were completely hands on, always available and totally involved with this large project. Everyone on the team was completely professional and friendly and it was a wonderful way for our staff and ourselves to learn so much with this hands on approach. Nothing was too much trouble and it was a project that had a “feel good“ effect. Our guests have been delighted with the result and we are doubly thrilled that due to this project we are saving 22 500 litres of water a week. Sincere thanks.

      Read More
    • Barbara Devine, BlairgowrieBarbara Devine, Blairgowrie

      I found Grounded Landscaping through Google and liked what they were offering. I called, and they were very professional and efficient. Ryan came to quote and sent the design within 24 hours and the I received the quote within a week. I thought the price quoted was very reasonable. The work on the garden commenced as per agreed date and I am very happy with the final garden. Ryan kept me updated daily and the work carried out was professional and efficient, whilst being friendly and helpful. Once the garden was completed, Ryan and Glenice came to take me through the care of the plants and presented me with a book on indigenous plants which was a really nice touch. The small things make all the difference. A thoroughly enjoyable experience and I am very happy with the outcome and would definitely recommend Grounded Landscaping.

      Read More
  • DIY Articles

  • Popular Articles

  • Recent Articles

  • About us

    Grounded Landscaping is an award-winning landscaping company specialising in indigenous, wildlife-friendly gardens. We are based in the Cradle of Humankind, a world heritage site and part of the grassland biome of Southern Africa. We service most areas of Gauteng, including Johannesburg, Centurion and Pretoria.
    READ MORE
    © Copyright 2023 Grounded Landscaping, Gauteng, South Africa, cc 2011/012073/23
    linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram