The cultivation of garlic at home is becoming increasingly popular among urban gardening enthusiasts. In addition to being a simple and accessible process, it allows enthusiasts to enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting one of the most versatile and healthy ingredients for daily cooking. In this article, we provide a simple guide to starting your own garlic garden at home.
The first fundamental step is to select the right garlic. While supermarket garlic can be used, it is preferable to opt for organic or locally grown garlic, as these are less likely to be treated with chemicals that inhibit germination. Once you have the appropriate garlic, you will need to separate the cloves, making sure to keep the skin intact.
The choice of soil plays a crucial role in the success of garlic cultivation. This vegetable thrives best in well-drained and airy soils, rich in organic matter. If you do not have a garden, pots or planters are effective alternatives, as long as they have the proper depth to allow the roots to grow as the garlic develops.
The timing of planting is another aspect to consider. Generally, garlic is planted in the fall, giving it time to develop strong roots before winter and sprout in spring. However, in warmer climates, they can be planted in early spring.
To proceed with planting, place each garlic clove about 5 centimeters deep, with the tip facing up, and space them about 10 to 15 centimeters apart. Watering should be moderate, as excess water can promote the growth of fungi that affect the roots.
Maintenance during the growth of garlic is relatively simple. It is important to keep the soil moist, without overwatering. In spring, it is recommended to apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to stimulate plant growth and remove competing weeds for nutrients.
Harvesting is usually done in early summer, when the leaves start to dry and turn yellow. At that point, the plants should be carefully removed and left to dry in a well-ventilated and shaded place for a few days in a process known as curing, which extends the shelf life of the garlic.
Growing garlic at home is not only a relaxing activity, but also helps reduce dependence on commercial products, offering a fresh and personalized touch to each dish. By following these simple steps, any gardening enthusiast can enjoy the flavor and satisfaction of harvesting their own garlic.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
