Bulb Vegetables

Hardneck garlic is prized by chefs and gardeners alike for its bold flavor, large cloves, and the bonus of edible garlic scapes. Unlike softneck types, hardnecks need a true winter chill to form proper bulbs, making them the go-to choice for gardeners in colder regions. I’ve grown hardneck garlic both in California’s Sierra foothills (Zone…

Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of the most rewarding crops a home gardener can grow, but not all garlic is the same. The two main types—softneck and hardneck—differ in flavor, storage, and growing requirements. Knowing which works best in your climate and kitchen is the first step to a successful harvest. I’ve grown both types…

Garlic (Allium sativum) grows on nearly every continent, but your climate—whether warm or cold—shapes how you should plant, grow, and harvest it. After growing garlic in both California’s hot Central Valley and cooler Sonoma Valley, I’ve learned firsthand that garlic is adaptable if you match your practices to your climate. Garlic Planting Quick Chart by…

Planting garlic at the right soil temperature can mean the difference between plump, healthy bulbs and disappointing, undersized heads. Garlic is remarkably adaptable, but timing and temperature are everything. I’ve planted garlic for more than 30 years, in both California’s hot Central Valley and cooler Sonoma Valley. From experience—and supported by university extension research—I can…

Garlic is one of the easiest crops to grow—once you know when to plant it. Timing is everything. Plant too early, and cloves may sprout before winter. Plant too late, and roots won’t have enough time to establish. The right timing depends on your USDA hardiness zone. I’ve grown garlic for more than 30 years…

Garlic is one of the easiest crops to grow, but timing is everything. After more than 30 years of planting garlic in both California’s Central Valley and my Sonoma Valley garden, I’ve seen how fall versus spring planting produces very different results. In this post, I’ll compare the two planting times—highlighting the benefits, challenges, and…