Garlic (Allium sativum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Garlic on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Garlic
Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family, primarily valued for its edible bulbs. It features an erect flowering stem with flat leaves and a bulb composed of several fleshy cloves. While primarily a garden crop, its vibrant green foliage and delicate white or pink flowers can add visual interest to herb gardens or sunny borders.
Native range
Central Asia
Care tips
Garlic requires full sun (at least 6 hours daily) and well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during bulb development. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, poorly drained soils, which can lead to bulb rot. It is typically planted in autumn in temperate climates for a summer harvest.
How to save a dying Garlic
- Warning signs
- Yellow, soft, or moldy leaves from tip; soft or rotting bulbs.
- First aid
- Reduce watering, improve drainage and ventilation. Remove damaged parts to prevent spread.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing bulb rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't affected the entire bulb. Act quickly.