Garlic is native to central Asia, and has long been a staple in the Mediterranean region, as well as in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
climate
There are different types or subspecies of garlic, most notably hardneck
garlic (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon) and softneck garlic (Allium
sativum var. sativum). Hardneck garlic is generally grown in cooler
climates; softneck garlic is generally grown closer to the equator. Both of these subspecies of garlic
prefer sunny locations.
soil
Garlic does well in loose, dry, well drained soils. Garlic plants prefer to
grow in a soil with a high organic material content, but are capable of
growing in a wide range of soil conditions.
growing
Garlic is easy to grow and can be grown year-round in mild climates by
planting individual cloves in the ground. In cold climates, cloves are
planted in the autumn, about six weeks before the soil freezes, and
harvested in late spring.
harvesting
When planted early in the spring, in February or March, the bulbs should be
ready for lifting in August, when the leaves will be beginning to wither.
Should the summer have been wet and cold, they may probably not be ready
till nearly the middle of September. Use garlic cloves fresh, dried and cut
into pieces, or powdered.
preserving
Store dried garlic (pieces or powdered) in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
