Time to Order Garlic
It’s time to start ordering your garlic for fall planting. If you’re new to garlic or thinking about expanding production to a commercial scale. Here are a few things to consider.
Planning
- Order garlic "seed" (planting stock) in July for the best variety selection.
- Hardneck garlic varieties are recommended for Kentucky growers due to their ability to withstand Kentucky winters.
- Garlic grows best in well-drained soils with high organic matter.
Planting (September–November)
- In Kentucky, garlic is typically planted from mid-September through mid-November, depending on the variety.
- Apply 3–4 inches of straw mulch after planting. On larger-scale operations, polyethylene mulch can also be used.
Growing Season
- In addition to bulbs and cloves, hardneck garlic produces garlic scapes, which provide an additional marketable crop before harvest.
Harvest (June–July)
- Harvest typically begins in June through July, depending on the variety and weather.
- Ensure you have a proper curing location to maximize storage life and maintain bulb quality.
Marketing & Economics
- Garlic has a long shelf life, allowing growers to extend their marketing season.
- In addition to fresh bulbs and scapes, garlic can be marketed as value-added products, including seasonings and spreads.
- Farmers market prices (2023 data from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana) ranged from $0.50 to $4.00 per bulb.
- Net returns vary by market and management but can average $2,000–$6,000 per acre.
Want more info on growing garlic? Check out our pubs!
https://ccd.uky.edu/sites/default/files/2024-12/ccd-cp-141_garlic_multistate.pdf