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Garlic , a various and flavorful bulb , is a pop gain to garden in Massachusetts . Itspungent aromaandmedicinal attribute makeit a valuable crop forhome gardeners . But how do you successfully plant and grow Allium sativum in the singular climate of Massachusetts ? This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to embark on your garlic - growing adventure .
Choosing the Right Variety
select the rightgarlic varietyis crucial for success in Massachusetts . Hardneck variety , know for their large , flavorsome cloves and ability towithstand frigid temperatures , are best fit for the region . Some recommendedhardneck varietiesfor Massachusetts let in :
Preparing the Soil
Garlic prefers well - drained , loamy soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . If your dirt is not ideal , improve it with compost or manure to amend drain and birth rate . see to it the planting bed receives plentiful sunlight , as Allium sativum postulate at least six hours of verbatim lighter day by day .
Planting Garlic
The ideal time to plant Allium sativum in Massachusetts is in the twilight , between mid - October and mid - November . This allows the bulbs toestablish rootsbefore the ground freezes.1 . discover the Bulbs : freestanding thegarlic headsintoindividual cloves , ensure each Eugenia aromaticum has a pointed end.2 . Plant the Cloves : Plant thecloves pointed endup , 2 - 3inches deepand 4 - 6 inches apart.3 . Mulch : Cover the bottom with a stratum of mulch , such as wheat orshredded leaf , to protect the clove fromcold temperaturesand suppress dope .
Winter Care
During thewinter months , garlic plant inscribe a dormant state . Protect them fromextreme coldby keeping the mulch layer deep andwatering deeplybefore the flat coat freezes .
Spring Care
Asspring arrive , the garlic plants will commence to emerge from dormancy . take out anyremaining mulchand fertilize the flora with a balanced fertilizer . pee regularly , especially during ironical spells .
Watering
Adequate watering is essential for garlic growth . Water the plants deeply and regularly , especially during the bulb formation stage ( June - July ) . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to beginning rot .
Harvesting Garlic
Garlic is ready to harvest when thetops plow brownand start todie back . Typically , this come about in mid - July to former August.1 . Dig the Bulbs : mildly digup the electric light using a garden fork.2 . Cure the Bulbs : string up the bulbs in a warm , dry , and well - ventilated areafor 2 - 3 weeks to bring around . Thisprocess helpsto develop the flavor and extend the ledge life.3 . Store the Bulbs : Store thecured garlicin a cool , dry placefor several months .
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Soft Neck Rot : because of bacteria or fungi , this problem leads to soft , mushy bulbs . Practice crop gyration and useclean planting materialsto foreclose it . White Rot : This fungal disease make the medulla to turn blank and soft . Avoid planting Allium sativum in infested soil and absent infect plants immediately .
Pests and Diseases
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q : When is the best time toplant garlicin Massachusetts?A : Mid - October to mid - November . Q : How late should I plant garlic cloves?A : 2 - 3 inches inscrutable . Q : How far apart should I plant garlic cloves?A : 4 - 6 inches apart . Q : How often should I water garlic plants?A : Regularly , especially during dry magical spell . Q : How long does it take for ail to mature?A : just about 6 - 8 months . Q : How can I prevent indulgent neck rot?A : Practice crop rotationand use clean planting material . Q : What are somecommon peststhat affect garlic plants?A : Onion fliesand thrips . Q : How can Istore garlicfor several months?A : Cure the bulbs for 2 - 3 week and store them in a cool , ironical seat .
