Can I Plant Store-Bought Garlic in My Grow Bag? Yes, You Can!

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can plant store-bought garlic in your Gardenuity grow bag, the short answer is: Yes, you can! Garlic is one of the most rewarding crops to grow, and starting with store-bought garlic can be a cost-effective and simple way to get started. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your garlic grows successfully. Let’s dive into the details with tips and tricks from the Gardenuity Grow Pro team.

What to Look for in Store-Bought Garlic

Not all garlic is created equal, and choosing the right bulbs to plant is key. Here’s what to look for when picking garlic from the store:

1. Organic Garlic: Many conventional garlic bulbs are treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting. Opt for organic garlic to ensure your cloves are ready to grow.
2. Firm Bulbs: Select bulbs that are firm to the touch and free from mold or soft spots. Healthy bulbs produce healthy plants.
3. Visible Cloves: Look for bulbs with large, well-defined cloves. Smaller cloves may sprout but will produce smaller yields.

Once you’ve selected your garlic, you’re ready to prepare it for planting.

How to Plant Garlic in Your Grow Bag

Garlic is planted in the fall or early winter months depending on where you live and takes about 6-8 months to mature, so patience is key. Here are the steps to get started:

1. Prepare Your Grow Bag: Remove any dead or tired plants from your grow bag and refresh the soil by turning it over, and mixing in some Gardenuity soil serum, coffee grounds, or egg shells. Garlic thrives in loose, well-draining soil, so remember to aerate and clean up your grow bag soil prior to planting the garlic.

2. Break Apart the Bulb: Separate the garlic bulb into individual cloves, keeping the papery skin intact. Only plant the largest cloves for the best results.
3. Plant the Cloves:
   • Dig small holes about 2 inches deep in the center of the grow bag.
   • Place each clove pointed end up, with the flat root end facing down.
   • Space the cloves about 4 inches apart if planting multiple cloves.
4. Cover and Water: Cover the cloves with soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as your garlic begins to grow.
5. Mulch (Optional): Adding a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and regulate temperature during the colder months.

Keeping Your Grow Bag Growing

Your garlic will take its time growing underground, but that doesn’t mean your grow bag has to be idle. When spring arrives, consider planting companion herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme around the garlic. These herbs not only maximize the use of your grow bag but also create a harmonious environment for your plants.

Patience is Worth It

Growing garlic takes time—up to 8 months, in fact. But the reward of harvesting your own flavorful, homegrown garlic makes it all worthwhile. As your garlic grows, you’ll see green shoots emerge, followed by the development of hearty bulbs beneath the soil. Remember to:

• Water Consistently: Garlic likes moist but not soggy soil.
• Feed the Soil: Keeping your soil alive and thriving is important especially if you are adding some fresh herbs to your garden this spring.
• Watch for Harvest Signs: Your garlic is ready to harvest when the green tops turn yellow and begin to dry out.

Planting store-bought garlic in your grow bag is a fantastic way to keep your garden thriving year-round. With a little patience and care, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own garlic and the endless culinary possibilities it brings. Plus, pairing garlic with companion herbs in the spring ensures your grow bag remains a productive part of your gardening routine.

Do you have questions about your grow bag or planting other crops? Reach out to the Gardenuity Grow Pro team—we’re here to help you grow with confidence.