[scientific name]
Sustainable Ewe favourites:
History |
| Used during the war as an antibiotic the juice of garlic was used on open wounds.Antibacterial compoundsLikes fertile soil, free draining.
Plant late in autumn/early spring – traditionally on the shortest day and harvest on the longest day. Plant 12-15cm apart. Mulch with pea straw. Weed well as garlic does not like competition. Harvest when leaves start to go yellow and dry. Shake soil off and leave to dry in the shade foir a few days. Trim roots and plait or hang in bunches Needs 2 months of temps below 7 degrees C to really get going Save the best bulbs for replanting next season |
Growing |
| Storing harvested [name]: Leave in warm breezy spot to cure for 3-4 weeks. Do not let them get wet. Or hang in small bunches.
Brush off excess dirt. Discard damaged or diseased Once dried trim roots and tops. Remove dirty outer layers. Store in mesh bags or loose weave basket in dark dry room that is fairly warm. Seed Saving: |
Maintenance |
| Feeding: |
Fun Facts |
Problems |
| Downy Mildew – Grey or purple spots on leaves. Leaves appear pitted. Usually occurs in wet weather. Improve air circulation and drainage.Heavy top growth/Leaf droop – Too much Nitrogen or manure.Soft Bulbs – Excess Nitrogen
Botrytis, grey mould – soft roots with grey or brown mould (more common in storage) Store in dry well ventilated conditions. Bulbs split at base – heavy rain or watering after a prolonged dry spell. Water frequently in dry weather. Bolting/Running to seed – seed sown at the wrong time. Sow correct variety at the correct time. Rust – rusty coloured spots on leaves, little or no growth. (caused by fungus Puccinia allii). Remove and dispose of diseased plants. Rotate crops with at least 3 years between plantings. Do not overcrowd |
Pests |
| Thrips – Blotched silver, grey or white. Leaves may deform in severe cases. More common in dry weather. Keep garden weeded. Keep plants well watered |
Companion Planting |
| Apricot, Chervil, Fruit Trees, Lavender, Rosemary, RosesNEVER Beans, Broad Beans, Bush Beans, Climbing Beans, Cabbages, Peas, Sunflowers |