Clear a spot for garlic

It’s time to plant garlic. Livingseeds, an heirloom seed company in Henleyon-Klip, cultivates garlic cloves, among others. Owner Sean Freeman gives tips for a bumper crop. Choose your garlic “We have three varieties: the Egyptian White is similar to the imported Chinese garlic you find in the shops, but the flavour is so much better. The Egyptian Pink has smaller cloves and a stronger, richer flavour, and Giant Garlic is really a leek that thinks it’s garlic – we’ve had heads weighing 230g in the garden. The Giant has a subtle flavour and its size makes it a pleasure to work with in the kitchen. It is also the easiest garlic to grow, especially in a warm areas that don’t really experience a cold resting period.” Planting time “Garlic has quite specific growing requirements, particularly when it comes to day length and resting time – the best time to plant is from February to mid-April.” Soil and water requirements “Garlic is a hungry plant. Prepare the soil by working in compost, bonemeal and calcium – not dolomite. Make sure to put down a thick layer of mulch, feed regularly with organic fertiliser, and water often. Give more water after the dormant winter period, when the garlic bulbs start to develop. Adult plants need less water, especially when the leaves turn yellow. Stop watering altogether two weeks before you plan to harvest.” Away with pests “Garlic’s biggest enemy is anthracnose, but a certified organic product with a copper base – such as Biogrow Copper Soap – makes short work of it.” Harvest time “When the leaves turn yellow and the plant falls over, it’s ready to be taken from the ground. Don’t let it lie like this for too long – rather dry it out undercover. Remove the outermost skin that was in contact with the soil and you’ll have beautiful clean heads of garlic.” Contact 073 141 7101

livingseeds.co.za