If you’re like me, garlic is one of those ingredients you can’t imagine cooking without. From that satisfying sizzle in a hot pan to the aroma that fills the kitchen, garlic is an absolute must. But, if you’ve ever found yourself mid-recipe with no garlic in sight, then you know the struggle. That’s why I decided to try growing my own garlic indoors. It seemed a bit ambitious at first, but surprisingly, it’s quite simple—and deeply rewarding!
Here’s my tried-and-tested method for growing garlic indoors, in just seven easy steps. If you’re craving fresh garlic at your fingertips, let’s dive in.
Step 1: Choose Your Garlic Wisely
First things first, not all garlic is created equal. For indoor growing, you’ll want to start with organic garlic, preferably from a local market. I made the mistake of grabbing regular supermarket garlic, only to find out it’s often treated to prevent sprouting. So, pick up some organic garlic bulbs, and look for ones that are firm, plump, and have no signs of mold or damage.
Step 2: Separate the Cloves – But Don’t Peel Them!
Once you’ve got your garlic, it’s time to break it down. Gently separate the cloves from the bulb, but resist the urge to peel them. Keeping the skin intact helps protect the cloves during the initial stages of growth. I like to pick the largest cloves, as they tend to produce the strongest plants.
Step 3: Pick the Perfect Pot
Your garlic will need a pot that’s at least 6 inches deep, with good drainage holes. This allows enough room for roots to spread and prevents water from pooling at the bottom. I use a standard terracotta pot, which works a treat. Just make sure it’s wide enough to hold a few cloves with a couple of inches between them, giving each plant a bit of personal space.
Step 4: Prepare the Soil
Garlic loves well-draining soil, so go for a high-quality potting mix. I mix in a bit of sand or perlite to keep things nice and light. Don’t use heavy garden soil, as it can suffocate the roots and stunt growth. Adding a sprinkle of compost is also a nice touch, giving the garlic a bit of a nutrient boost as it grows.
Step 5: Plant Your Cloves
Now for the exciting bit—actually planting the garlic! Place each clove into the soil with the pointed end facing up, about 2 inches deep. Leave a few inches between each one, as garlic doesn’t appreciate being crowded. It might look a bit bare initially, but trust me, it’ll fill out soon enough!
Step 6: Find a Sunny Spot
Garlic loves light, and indoors, you’ll need to give it a good dose of sunshine. I place my pot on a sunny windowsill that gets about six to eight hours of light each day. If your home doesn’t get much natural light, consider using a grow light. It makes a big difference and helps those green shoots spring up fast.
Step 7: Water Lightly – Don’t Overdo It!
The trickiest part of growing garlic indoors is getting the watering right. I learned this the hard way when my first batch ended up a bit soggy. Garlic doesn’t like too much moisture, so water sparingly. I usually wait until the top inch of soil feels dry, then give it a light watering. It’s better to underwater a little than to go overboard. The goal is just to keep the soil slightly moist.
Watching It Grow – The Best Part
Once planted, it takes a few weeks for the garlic to start showing signs of life. But when those green shoots finally pop up, it’s like a little victory! Over time, they’ll get taller and stronger, and you’ll even be able to snip the green tops to use like chives while waiting for the cloves to develop below.
Growing garlic indoors has honestly been such a satisfying project. There’s something magical about having fresh, home-grown garlic within arm’s reach, and knowing that you’re one step closer to self-sufficiency—even if it’s in a small way.
Final Thoughts
If you love garlic as much as I do, give indoor garlic growing a go. It’s low-maintenance, rewarding, and brings a fresh vibe to your kitchen. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about running out mid-recipe again! With these seven easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to harvesting your very own garlic in the comfort of your home.