Question
garlic
A fellow gardener shared garlic with me that appeared to be undersized and moist. The tops had died off and the cloves were separating. The grower said this was the second year she grew China Pink garlic with the same results. It has been harvested and is being used, but because it is not hardened off, the clove skins remain damp, and they will not cure, it does not seem they will "keep" in storage. Do you know why this would happen? Thank you in advance.
DAWN
AnswerI would need to know the composition of her soil to adequately respond to your question. Garlic should be grown in rich, loamy soil. Raised beds are best to ensure depth for good bulb development. Clay soils are extremely restrictive to bulb development and also have poor drainage.
My advice is to grow a different variety next year, and to amend the soil this fall with organic matter. If possible, I would also add depth to the bed of at least 6". You can then plant the cloves later this fall or very early next spring. This should resolve the problem.
Good luck, and have a great weekend.
Mike
