Growing garlic bulbils in pots is a great way to get started with garlic growing, especially if you have limited outdoor space or want to grow garlic indoors. Garlic bulbils are small aerial bulbs that form on the flowering stalks of garlic plants, and they can be used to grow new garlic plants. In this blog post, we’ll go through the steps to grow garlic bulbils in pots and give you some tips on how to care for them.
What you’ll need:
- Garlic bulbils
- Pots with drainage holes
- Potting soil
- Compost or other organic matter
- Water
- Fertilizer
- Grow lights (optional)
Step 1: Choose the right pot
You can grow garlic bulbils in small pots, such as 3-4 inch pots. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. You can also use larger pots if you want to grow multiple garlic bulbils in the same pot.
Step 2: Prepare the soil
Use a high-quality potting mix and add some organic matter, such as compost, to improve the soil structure and fertility. Garlic grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Step 3: Plant the bulbils
Separate the bulbils from the garlic stalk and plant them about an inch deep in the soil, pointed end up. Space the bulbils about 2-3 inches apart. Cover the bulbils with soil and gently press down to firm the soil around them.
Step 4: Water regularly
Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Garlic does not like to dry out, so be sure to water it regularly. You can test the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Step 5: Provide the right light
Garlic bulbils need at least 6 hours of bright, direct sunlight per day, so place the pot in a sunny window or under grow lights. If you’re growing garlic indoors, you can use grow lights to provide the necessary light.
Step 6: Fertilize sparingly
Garlic does not need a lot of fertilizer, but you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month to provide nutrients. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and use it sparingly, as over-fertilization can damage the garlic plants.
Step 7: Thin the bulbs
As the garlic bulbils start to grow, thin them out to allow each bulbil enough space to grow into a mature bulb. Leave the strongest bulbs in the pot and remove any weak ones.
Step 8: Harvest
After about 9-12 months, the garlic bulbils will have grown into mature bulbs. You can then harvest them and let them dry in a warm, dry place for a few days before using. To harvest, gently dig up the bulbs and brush off any excess soil.
Growing garlic bulbils in pots is a fun and rewarding activity, and it’s a great way to get started with garlic growing. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, homegrown garlic. So why not give it a try and start growing your own garlic bulbils in pots today?