How to grow Garlic in the UK
Allium sativum
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Plant in autumn for biggest bulbs. Use seed garlic (not supermarket) for UK climate. This guide covers when and how to sow Garlic, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Garlic
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep | Oct Plant | Nov Plant | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 2.5 cm (tip up)
- Spacing
- 15 cm apart, rows 30 cm
- Sowing
- Plant single cloves Oct–Feb — needs a cold spell to bulb up
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Harvest when lower leaves yellow in summer; dry before storing
- Watch for
- White rot, rust
Companion planting for Garlic
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Garlic to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Garlic FAQs
What grows well with Garlic?
Garlic grows well alongside Apple, Beetroot, Carrot, Cherry, Lettuce, Pear. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Garlic?
Keep Garlic away from Asparagus, Asparagus Pea, Broad Bean, Dwarf French Bean, Lupin, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Garlic need?
Garlic prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Garlic ready to harvest?
Garlic is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August in the UK.
Is Garlic easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Plant in autumn for biggest bulbs. Use seed garlic (not supermarket) for UK climate.