How To Grow Garlic In Water? A 6-Step Easy Guide
- Author: Saiqa Najeeb
- Last Updated On: June 27, 2023
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Are you looking for a new way to grow Garlic that’s simple and low-maintenance? Growing Garlic in water is a method that’s gaining popularity among gardening enthusiasts.
Not only is it an easy way to grow Garlic, but it’s also a cost-effective way to have fresh Garlic on hand. If you’re interested in learning how to grow Garlic in water, you’re in the right place.
This article will show you the step-by-step process for growing Garlic in water. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the information you need to grow Garlic in water successfully. So, let’s get started!
Why Should You Grow Garlic Now?
Growing Garlic in water is an excellent way to have fresh, homegrown Garlic year-round without needing a garden or outdoor space.
- Easy to grow and low-maintenance, making it a great option for beginner gardeners
- Garlic is high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Garlic is a natural antibiotic that boosts the immune system, reduces blood pressure, and improves cholesterol levels.
- Growing Garlic in water allows you to control the growing environment and avoid pesticides and chemicals often found in commercially grown Garlic.
- Garlic is a versatile ingredient that adds flavor to various dishes, from savory to sweet.
Which Garlic Varieties are Suitable for Growing in Water?
Majorly there are two commonly grown garlic varieties:
Softneck garlic: It is a more common variety that grows well in warmer climates. It has a softer stem that is easily braided and can produce more cloves per bulb than hardneck garlic. Softneck garlic is also known for having a longer shelf life and a milder flavor.
Hardneck garlic: It is better suited for colder climates and has a harder stem that cannot be braided. It produces fewer cloves per bulb but they are larger and easier to peel. Hardneck garlic is also known for having a more complex and stronger flavor than softneck garlic.
When it comes to growing in water, softneck garlic variety is most suitable.
What do you need to grow Garlic?
- Garlic cloves
- A container (such as a clear glass jar or plastic container)
- Fresh, clean water (free of chlorine and other chemicals)
- Sunlight (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day)
- Optional: Liquid fertilizer or compost tea to add nutrients to the water
How to Grow Garlic in Water: Step-by-Step Process
- Select your garlic cloves: Choose high-quality garlic cloves from a reputable source. Separate the cloves from the bulb, making sure each clove is intact and has a papery skin.
- Prepare the container: Clean your container thoroughly with warm water and soap to remove any dirt or residue. Rinse well and let it dry completely.
- Add water to the container: Fill up your container with fresh, clean water, leaving enough space at the top to accommodate the garlic cloves. Ensure the water is at room temperature and free of chlorine and other chemicals.
- Place the garlic cloves in the container: Carefully place them in the water, ensuring they are fully submerged. The pointy end of the clove should be facing up, while the flat end should be submerged in the water.
- Find a sunny location: Place your container in a sunny location, such as a windowsill or a balcony that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Change the water regularly: Change the water every 2-3 days, making sure to use fresh, clean water. It will help prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the Garlic healthy.
- Add liquid fertilizer or compost tea (optional): If you want to add nutrients to the water, you can use a liquid fertilizer or compost tea. Follow the instructions on the package and add the appropriate amount to the water.
- Watch for growth: Garlic will start to grow within a week or two, and you will see green shoots emerging from the top of the cloves. As the shoots grow, you can change the water more frequently to keep the Garlic healthy.
Tips for Harvesting and Storing Garlic
When is the right time to harvest Garlic grown in water?
Harvest Garlic when the leaves start to yellow and dry up. The bulbs should be firm and have a tight, protective outer layer of skin. Gently remove the garlic bulbs from the water. Rinse off any excess water and let them dry in a cool, dry place with good ventilation for about two to three weeks.
How to store and preserve Garlic grown in water?
After drying, store the garlic bulbs in a mesh bag or a basket in a cool, dry, and dark place. Do not store them in a plastic bag or container, which can cause moisture buildup and spoilage. Garlic stored this way can last for up to six months.
Pros and Cons of Growing Garlic in Water
While growing Garlic in water can be a great option for those with limited garden space or who live in apartments or other urban environments, this method has pros and cons. Here are a few to consider:
Pros:
- Minimal space required: All you need is a container and some water!
- Easy to monitor and maintain: Since the garlic bulbs are growing in water, it’s easy to monitor their progress and ensure they have enough water and nutrients.
- No soil-borne diseases: Growing Garlic in water eliminates the risk of soil-borne diseases or pests that can affect traditional soil-based gardening.
Cons:
- May not produce as much as traditional methods: While Garlic grown in water can still produce bulbs, they may not be as large or robust as those grown in soil.
- Limited to certain varieties: Not all garlic varieties are well-suited to growing in water, so it’s important to research and choose a variety known to do well in this method.
By checking these pros and cons, you can determine if growing Garlic in water is the right choice for you and your gardening goals.
Wrap Up
Now you have all the answers to “How to grow garlic in water?” By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can successfully grow Garlic in water and enjoy the many benefits of this versatile plant.
From its health benefits to its culinary versatility, Garlic is an essential ingredient in any kitchen, and growing it in water can be a fun and rewarding experience. Growing Garlic in water is an easy and accessible way to bring the flavors of the garden into your home.
So, try and start enjoying the benefits of fresh, homegrown Garlic today!
