Autumn is a suitable time for garlic planting, but the planting time varies depending on the climate of different regions. Therefore, mastering the appropriate sowing time is crucial, as it has a profound impact on seedling growth and overwintering. So when is the best time to plant autumn garlic? Let's find out below.
When is the best time to plant autumn garlic?
The optimal time for planting autumn garlic is approximately from mid-September to early October, when temperatures are suitable for garlic growth. However, the specific planting time needs to be determined based on local climate and planting conditions.
What are the key points for planting autumn garlic?
1. Variety selection
For autumn-sown garlic, choose varieties that are adaptable, light-loving, cold-resistant, vigorous, have a high bolting rate, and high yield of garlic bulbs and scapes.
2. Site Selection
Choose a plot of land with loose, well-drained soil and rich organic matter, preferably sandy loam, and avoid continuous cropping with onions and garlic.
3. Apply sufficient base fertilizer
Base fertilizer should be applied before plowing. Generally, apply 5,000 to 8,000 kilograms of high-quality organic fertilizer such as manure and farmyard manure per mu, along with 20 to 30 kilograms of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer.
4. Seed treatment
Before sowing, soak 100 kg of garlic seeds in a 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution for 6 hours, then sow them with 500 g of 50% carbendazim powder. This will not only help seedlings emerge earlier and prevent diseases, but also promote early maturity and increase yield.
5. Sowing method
Make a shallow furrow with a hoe and sow the seed petals into the soil. Cover with about 2 cm of soil, lightly tamp it down with your feet, and water thoroughly. To prevent drought, cover the soil with two layers of straw or other moisture-retaining material. Planting should not be too shallow; the suitable depth is 3-4 cm.
6. Reasonable planting density
The planting density should be determined according to the production purpose and variety characteristics. Generally, for garlic scape production, the row spacing is 14-17 cm and the plant spacing is 7-8 cm; for garlic bulb production, the row spacing is 18-20 cm and the plant spacing is 12-15 cm.
7. Sealing treatment
After sowing, once the soil moisture is suitable, apply herbicides such as acetochlor or pendimethalin for soil sealing. If mulching is desired, it can be done after applying the herbicide .
