Climate / Temperature: Garlic plants require a cool and humid period during growth and a relatively dry period for bulb maturation. Garlic cannot be cultivated in extremely hot or cold temperatures. A cool and humid climate is essential during the stages of vegetative growth and tuber development.
Temperature: The optimal temperature for garlic cultivation is between 25 to 29 degrees Celsius, with a day length of about 10 hours and humidity around 70%. If garlic is exposed to low temperatures for extended periods, it may produce bulbils in the leaves, leading to reduced bulb yield.
Water Demand: Garlic requires a total water demand equivalent to 600 to 700 mm of rainfall. On clay or loamy soil, irrigation should provide at least 1 inch of water weekly, while sandy soils may require up to 2 inches. An adequate water supply of 900 to 1200 milliliters is essential. Heavy watering is best on clay soil, while sandy soil should be watered less frequently but more regularly.
Soil Requirements: Loamy sandy soil is suitable for garlic cultivation. Garlic can be grown in various types of soil, but it thrives best in fertile, well-drained loamy soil. Soil with high organic content has enhanced moisture and nutrient retention capabilities.
The suitable pH level for garlic cultivation should be between 6 and 7. Garlic is sensitive to acidic, alkaline, and saline soils. When using fertilizers, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur should be applied and incorporated into the soil before planting.
Three main varieties of garlic are found:
Yamuna White (G-1): Each bulb has solid cloves, with outer skin that is silvery white and cream-colored. It matures in 150-160 days and yields 150-160 quintals per hectare.
Yamuna White 2 (G-50): The solid-skinned cloves are white with cream pulp. It matures in 165-170 days, yielding 130-140 quintals per hectare. It is resistant to purple blotch and blight diseases.
Yamuna White 3 (G-282): This variety has large cloves with a diameter of 4-7.6 cm and matures in 140-150 days, yielding 175-200 quintals per hectare, making it excellent for export.
Field Preparation: Deep plowing should be done, and well-decomposed manure should be added to enhance soil organic content. The soil should be leveled and divided into small beds. Cow dung and compost bacteria should be mixed into the soil. The mixture should be left exposed for about two weeks to decompose. Create raised beds with a 2-foot gap between them and 3 feet in width.
Sowing of Crops: Garlic is sown using the dibbling method. It is typically sown in irrigated areas during October-November. Cloves should be planted at a depth of 5-7 cm and covered with light soil. The pointed end of the clove should be facing up.
Nursery Preparation: Soil should be tilled or turned once or twice with a tractor as needed. For one acre of land, prepare six beds that are 3 meters long, 1 meter wide, and 15 cm high for transplantation. Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 2-5 to 3 cm and spaced 10 cm apart. The plants are suitable for transplantation after 25-30 days.
Fertilizers and Manure: Garlic requires 20-25 tons of well-rotted manure or compost per hectare or 5-8 tons of vermicompost, along with 100 kg of nitrogen, 50 kg of phosphorus, and 50 kg of potassium. The total amounts of cow dung, DAP, and potash, along with half the amount of urea, should be mixed into the soil during final land preparation. The NPK requirement is 40:20:20 kg per acre.
Crop Cycle: It is advisable to practice crop rotation when planting garlic. Do not plant garlic where onions or other members of the onion family have been grown previously. Garlic should be planted in full sunlight in well-drained beds containing organic matter.
Water Management; Light irrigation should be applied using a sprinkler system. Irrigation should be done every 12-15 days when the crop is nearing maturity. During crop growth, ensure weekly irrigation.
Harvesting: The crop is ready for harvesting when the leaves of the plants begin to turn yellow. Garlic can be harvested after 130-150 days. Pull the plants by hand, tie them into bundles, and dry them in the shade for 10-15 days.
Damping Off Disease
Mild Root Rot Disease
Purple Blotch Disease
Stemphylium Blight Disease
Red Spider Mite Disease
Thrips Disease
Caterpillar Disease
