October is the perfect time to plant garlic and shallots, giving them a head start over the winter and ensuring a rich harvest the following summer. These hardy crops thrive when planted in the cooler months, allowing roots to establish before the soil freezes.

Choosing Your Varieties

Garlic comes in two main types: hardneck and softneck. Hardneck varieties develop a flowering stalk, or “scape,” and tend to have stronger flavours, while softneck garlic is milder and stores well. Shallots are available in classic brown, red, or grey varieties, each with a slightly different flavour profile. Choose high-quality, disease-free bulbs from a reputable supplier for the best results.

Preparing the Soil

Both garlic and shallots prefer well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Before planting, loosen the soil and enrich it with compost or well-rotted manure. Avoid freshly fertilised ground, as high nitrogen levels can encourage leafy growth rather than bulb formation.

Planting Tips

Separate the garlic cloves just before planting, keeping the papery skins intact. Plant cloves pointy end up, about 5 cm deep and 10–15 cm apart. Shallots can be planted in a similar manner, spaced about 10 cm apart. Water the soil gently to settle the bulbs but avoid waterlogging.

Care Over Winter

Mulching with straw or garden compost protects the bulbs from frost and helps retain moisture. Garlic and shallots require minimal attention over winter, but check occasionally for waterlogging or signs of disease.

Harvesting

Garlic is usually ready to harvest in mid-summer when leaves start to yellow, and shallots can be harvested once the tops begin to fall over. With careful planting in October, you can enjoy a plentiful supply of fresh, homegrown garlic and shallots, perfect for adding flavour to your culinary creations.