Garlic is a staple in many kitchens, providing both flavor and health benefits.
One of the most popular varieties of garlic is White Casablanca.
Known for its mild flavor and large bulbs, White Casablanca garlic is a great choice for planting in your garden.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will help you plant and care for your White Casablanca garlic so you can enjoy a bountiful harvest.
Understanding Soil Requirements
When planting garlic, it’s important to understand the soil requirements.
White Casablanca garlic prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it by adding sulfur to lower the pH.
Conversely, if your soil is too acidic, you can amend it with lime to raise the pH.
Good soil preparation will ensure your garlic has the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Selecting and Planting Garlic Cloves
When selecting garlic bulbs to plant, choose large bulbs with plump cloves.
Discard any cloves that are soft or damaged.
To plant your garlic, separate the cloves from the bulb and plant each clove 4-6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart, with the pointed end facing up. Cover with soil and water thoroughly.
Proper Watering
Proper watering is key to successful garlic growth.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to disease.
As the garlic begins to grow, you may need to water more frequently, especially during dry spells.
Mulching
Mulching around your garlic plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth.
Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, such as straw, around each plant.
Fertilizing
Garlic is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilizing.
Fertilize your garlic with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, when the plants are 6 inches tall and again when they reach 12 inches tall.
Harvesting and Storing Garlic
When the garlic plants begin to yellow and the bottom leaves have started to brown, it’s time to harvest.
Gently pull the garlic bulbs from the soil and let them cure in a warm, dry place for 2-3 weeks.
Once cured, cut the leaves off, leaving 1-2 inches of the stem attached to the bulb.
Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place, such as a root cellar or basement.
Final Words
Planting White Casablanca garlic is a great way to add both flavor and nutrition to your garden.
By following these simple guidelines for soil preparation, planting, watering, mulching, fertilizing, and harvesting, you’ll be on your way to a successful garlic harvest.
So why not give it a try today?
FAQs
How deep should I plant my garlic cloves?
Plant your garlic cloves 4-6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up.
How often should I water my garlic plants?
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to disease. Water more frequently as the garlic begins to grow, especially during dry spells.
Is garlic a heavy feeder?
Yes, garlic is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilizing. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, when the plants are 6 inches tall and again when they reach 12 inches tall.
What is the ideal pH for White Casablanca garlic?
The ideal pH for White Casablanca garlic is between 6.0 and 7.0.
When is it time to harvest my garlic?
It’s time to harvest your garlic when the plants begin to yellow and the bottom leaves have started to brown. Let the bulbs cure in a warm, dry place for 2-3 weeks before cutting the leaves off and storing in a cool, dry place.
