Garlic seedlings in window box

How to Grow Garlic in Containers: Step-by-Step Guide

ByStephen Albert

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Growing garlic in containers is a fantastic option for gardeners with limited space or poor soil. With over 30 years of gardening experience, I’ve found that container garlic can thrive with the right soil, watering, and care.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions to grow healthy garlic bulbs in pots, raised containers, or even large window boxes.

Step 1: Choosing Containers

  • Size: Minimum 12 inches deep and 12–14 inches wide per bulb; larger containers allow multiple bulbs.
  • Material: Terracotta, ceramic, or plastic—all work as long as drainage is excellent.
  • Drainage: Ensure at least 1–2 inches of holes in the bottom; garlic does not tolerate soggy soil.

🌱 Tip: I often use 14–16 inch pots for 4–5 cloves; it gives bulbs plenty of space to grow.

Step 2: Selecting Soil

  • Use well-draining potting soil enriched with compost or organic fertilizer.
  • Soil pH should be 6.0–7.0 for optimal growth.
  • Avoid garden soil alone—it can compact and limit root development in containers.

Step 3: Planting Garlic

  1. Separate healthy cloves from a bulb; keep the papery skin intact.
  2. Plant pointed end up, 2 inches deep.
  3. Space cloves 4–6 inches apart in larger containers.
  4. Lightly water after planting.

🌱 Tip: Fall planting is best for most regions; in mild climates, spring planting is possible.

Step 4: Caring for Container Garlic

  • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more often in hot, dry weather.
  • Feeding: Side-dress with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer mid-season.
  • Sunlight: Place containers in full sun, 6–8 hours daily.
  • Mulching: Helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature.

Step 5: Harvesting and Curing

  • When to harvest: Bulbs are ready when ½–¾ of leaves turn yellow and brown.
  • Harvesting: Gently lift bulbs with your hands or a small trowel.
  • Curing: Dry in a ventilated area for 2–3 weeks; then trim roots and leaves.

🌱 Gardener’s note: I’ve successfully grown softneck and hardneck garlic in containers; bulbs are smaller than garden-grown but still flavorful and perfect for kitchen use.

Bottom Line

Container garlic is a practical, rewarding option for small spaces. With proper soil, watering, sunlight, and care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown garlic even without a traditional garden.

Garlic Growing Hub

Start here: The Ultimate Garlic Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest

🌱 Garlic Planting & Timing Clusters

🧄 Garlic Types & Varieties Clusters

🌿 Growing & Care Clusters

🐛 Pests & Disease Clusters

🌾 Harvest & Storage Clusters

🍳 Kitchen & Use Clusters


Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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