When to Plant Garlic in the UK

Garlic is usually planted in autumn in the UK so roots can develop over winter. Planting at the right time helps garlic grow steadily and produce larger bulbs.

Garlic is grown from individual cloves planted directly into the soil.

Autumn planting usually produces the best results.

Autumn planting

Garlic cloves are often planted between October and December.

Cool weather allows roots to establish before spring growth begins.

Well-drained soil helps prevent cloves from rotting.

Spring planting

Garlic can also be planted in early spring, though bulbs may be smaller.

Planting as soon as soil becomes workable often produces better results.

Growing garlic in containers

Garlic can be planted in containers filled with compost.

For container advice, see growing garlic in containers.

Planning the garlic growing season

Planting garlic in autumn usually produces harvests in early to mid-summer.

Garlic grows slowly through winter and faster in spring.

For growing advice, see how to grow garlic in the UK.