Gatherer Forager Blog

Hey fellow gardeners and garlic enthusiasts! We are about to embark on Garlic planting and I thought we were long over due to pop a little guide up and to share our garlic journey with you. We're the passionate folks behind Gatherer Forager and while we're known for our Natural skincare and honey, our love for garlic runs deep. There's just something incredibly rewarding about planting a small clove, nurturing it through the seasons, and then harvesting big, flavorful bulbs to eat through the year. 

Garlic, with its pungency and versatility, is a cornerstone of so many culinary traditions and medincine. From robust pastas to aromatic stir-fries, it has the power to elevate simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. But for us, growing garlic isn't just about the flavor; it's about the connection to the land and the simple joy of watching something grow.

We remember our very first garlic planting season when we moved to this land 8 years ago. I was heavily pregnant with our third child and we were filled with anticipation and perhaps a touch of anxiety. We read countless guides, asked for advice from fellow gardeners, and meticulously prepped our soil. When those first delicate shoots emerged from the earth, it was like a small victory. And when harvest time finally arrived, the satisfaction of digging up our own garlic was indescribable. 8 years on we are still using the Tassie purple from that seed and have added other varieties into the mix as well.

. In this blog post, we're excited to share some of the knowledge we have gained along the way with you, tailoring it specifically to the unique climate and varieties found right here in Australia.

Demystifying Garlic for Australian Climates

Australia is a continent of vast climatic diversity, from the cool temperate regions of Tasmania to the tropical north and the arid interior. This diversity means that planting garlic in Australia requires a tailored approach. What works in one region might not work in another.

Cool Temperate (e.g., Tasmania, parts of Victoria, New South Wales)

In cool temperate climates, garlic is often a staple in the garden. This is the classic "softneck" country, where varieties like 'Tassie Purple' thrive.

Planting Guide:

• When: Generally, garlic is planted in late autumn to early winter (April to June) to ensure it gets the necessary chill hours for bulb development.

• Where: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Garlic hates wet feet!

• How: Separate the garlic bulb into individual cloves. Plant the cloves with the pointed end facing up, about 5cm deep and 10-15cm apart. Cover with soil and mulch lightly.

• Care: Water regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Mulch will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Why Garlic Loves Cool Temperate Climates:

The distinct seasons in cool temperate regions provide the perfect conditions for garlic. The cool autumn allows the cloves to establish roots before winter, while the winter chill ensures proper bulb formation. The warm summer then ripens the garlic for harvest.

Mediterranean (e.g., South Australia, parts of Victoria, Western Australia)

With hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, Mediterranean climates are also well-suited for many garlic varieties, including both softneck and some hardneck types.

Planting Guide:

• When: Similar to cool temperate regions, late autumn to early winter is the ideal planting time.

• Where: Opt for a sunny position with free-draining soil. Garlic is particularly sensitive to waterlogging in this climate.

• How: Plant cloves similarly to the cool temperate method.

• Care: Pay close attention to watering, especially during the dry summer months. Mulching is crucial for conserving moisture.

Why Garlic Prefers Mediterranean Climates:

The distinct seasonal patterns align well with the life cycle of garlic. The wet winter provides the necessary moisture for early growth, while the dry summer ensures proper ripening.

Subtropical (e.g., Southeast Queensland, Northern New South Wales)

In subtropical regions, the challenge can be finding the right variety and managing the transition from cool winters to hot, humid summers.

Planting Guide:

• When: Plant garlic in late autumn or early winter (May to June) when the worst of the summer heat has passed.

• Where: Choose a well-drained spot with partial shade in the hottest part of the day, as garlic can struggle in extreme heat.

• How: Follow the standard planting instructions.

• Care: Manage watering carefully to avoid waterlogging, especially during the humid summer months.

Why Garlic in Subtropical Climates is Special:

While challenging, growing garlic in subtropical climates is a rewarding experience. It offers an opportunity to extend the growing season and produce unique garlic flavors.

Tropical (e.g., Northern Queensland, Northern Territory, Northern Western Australia)

Growing garlic in tropical climates can be a bit trickier, as traditional garlic varieties require a cool period that is simply non-existent in these regions. However, with the right selection and techniques, it's not impossible.

Planting Guide:

• When: Look for "heat-tolerant" garlic varieties that are better adapted to tropical conditions. These are often Creole or Asiatic types. Plant during the cool season.

• Where: Choose a shady spot or provide some artificial shade to protect the plants from scorching. Well-draining soil is crucial.

• How: Plant cloves with the pointed end up, making sure they're not buried too deeply.

• Care: Monitor watering closely, as tropical climates can be both wet and dry. Avoid overwatering.

Why Garlic in the Tropics is an Adventure:

Growing garlic in the tropics pushes the boundaries and requires careful variety selection. It's an opportunity to explore unique flavors and challenge conventional gardening wisdom.

Arid (e.g., Inland Australia)

In arid regions, the main challenges are extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and limited water resources.

Planting Guide:

• When: Plant garlic during the cooler months, such as autumn or winter. Look for heat-tolerant varieties.

• Where: Select a location that is protected from extreme wind and has access to regular watering. Improve soil drainage if necessary.

• How: Plant cloves deeper than in other climates to provide some insulation from the intense heat.

• Care: Water consistently and deeply, especially during dry spells. Mulching is essential to retain soil moisture.

Why Garlic in Arid Climates is a Statement:

Growing garlic in the arid interior is a testament to resilience and ingenuity. It demonstrates that with careful planning and resourcefulness, vibrant gardens can thrive even in the most challenging conditions.

A Spotlight on Australian Garlic Varieties

Now that we’ve covered the general principles of planting garlic in different Australian climates, let’s explore some of the specific varieties that we grow. Each variety brings its own unique flavor, appearance, and growing characteristics.

Yabroudi (The Rich and Robust One)

This Syrian heirloom variety is known for its intense, full-bodied flavor. It's a favorite among cooks who appreciate a punchy garlic that holds its own in any dish.

• Characteristics: Yabroudi typically produces medium to large bulbs with attractive purple skin. The cloves are large and easy to peel.

• Growing Guide: This variety is quite adaptable and can be grown in various climates, although it performs best in cooler temperate and Mediterranean regions. Plant in autumn for a summer harvest.

Our Experience with Yabroudi:

The first time we grew Yabroudi, we were blown away by its flavor. It has a complexity that we haven’t found in many other varieties. It's a fantastic garlic for roasting, as the flavor deepens and becomes wonderfully sweet. If you're looking for a garlic with personality, Yabroudi is the one for you!

Lokalen (The Reliable Hero)

As the name suggests, Lokalen is a popular choice for home gardeners in Australia. It's known for its consistent performance and classic garlic flavor.

• Characteristics: Lokalen typically produces large, well-formed bulbs with creamy white skin. The cloves are of a good size and arrange in a single layer around the stem.

• Growing Guide: Lokalen is a versatile softneck variety that thrives in cool temperate and Mediterranean climates. It's a reliable producer and is well-suited for a summer harvest.

Our Experience with Lokalen:

Lokalen is consistent, reliable, and produces bulbs of a great size. We often recommend this variety to beginner garlic growers because of its easy-going nature. It's a great all-rounder that's perfect for both everyday cooking and special dishes.

Elephant Garlic (The Mild Giant)

Elephant garlic is often mistaken for true garlic, but it's actually more closely related to leeks. It's known for its enormous bulbs and mild, delicate flavor.

• Characteristics: Elephant garlic produces exceptionally large bulbs, sometimes weighing over 500g! The flavor is mild and sweet a bit oniony, with a hint of garlic aroma.

• Growing Guide: Elephant garlic is easy to grow and adaptable. It can be planted in most Australian climates, although it prefers well-drained soil and consistent moisture.

Our Experience with Elephant Garlic:

The scale of Elephant garlic is truly impressive. We love seeing the reactions of friends and family when we show them a full-sized bulb! The bees LOVE the flowers and they can also be used in salads. While the flavor is milder than true garlic, it's fantastic when roasted or used in soups and stews where a delicate touch is needed. If you're looking for a low-maintenance, impressive garlic, Elephant garlic is a great choice.

Tassie Purple (The Cool Climate Star)

This Australian heirloom variety is a true beauty, with its distinctive purple skin and robust flavor. As the name suggests, it’s particularly well-suited for cool temperate regions.

• Characteristics: Tassie Purple produces medium to large bulbs with attractive purple streaks and blotches. The flavor is sharp and savory, with a sweet finish.

• Growing Guide: This variety thrives in the cooler conditions of Tasmania and parts of Victoria. It's a softneck variety and is best planted in autumn for a summer harvest.

Our Experience with Tassie Purple:

Tassie Purple is a favorite of ours. We love its distinct purple coloring and its complex flavor profile. It's a fantastic garlic for making garlic bread, as the flavor infuses perfectly with the butter and herbs. Growing Tassie Purple will always remind us of home , beautiful, cool climate Tasmania.

The Joys of Growing Your Own Garlic

Beyond the practical aspects of planting guides and variety selection, there are countless reasons why growing your own garlic is such a fulfilling experience. It's not just about the harvest; it’s about the entire process from planting to picking.

Here are a few reasons why we believe everyone should try growing garlic at least once:

Unmatched Flavor

When you grow your own garlic, you're experiencing it at its peak freshness. The flavor is more intense, the aroma is more vibrant, and the overall experience is unparalleled. Say goodbye to the bland, store-bought garlic and hello to a whole new world of flavor!

Connecting with Nature

Gardening is a wonderful way to connect with the natural world. It slows you down, teaches you patience, and allows you to appreciate the intricate dance of the seasons. There's nothing quite like the feeling of soil in your hands and the sun on your back.

The Joy of Sharing

One of our favorite things about growing garlic is sharing the harvest with friends and family. A basket of homegrown garlic bulbs makes for a truly special and thoughtful gift. It's a simple act that spreads joy and connects people through a love of food and gardening.

Sustainability and Control

By growing your own garlic, you have complete control over the entire process. You know exactly what’s gone into the soil, and you can be confident that your garlic is free from chemicals and pesticides. It’s a small step towards a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle.

We hope this blog post has inspired you to embark on your own garlic growing adventure. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, planting garlic is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right selection for your Australian climate and a little care, you'll be harvesting your own flavorful garlic bulbs in no time.

As always, we’re here to support you on your gardening journey. If you have any questions about planting garlic or selecting the right varieties for your region, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy planting, everyone!