Garlic bulbs should be planted about 4 inches (10 cm) deep, which allows the top of the clove to be about 2.5 to 3 inches below the soil surface. This depth helps protect the bulb from frost heaving during winter while providing insulation. Some gardeners plant shallower (around 1 inch deep from the tip), but commonly 3-4 inches is recommended for good growth and bulb size. It is important to plant with the pointed end up. Here are some key details on planting depth and spacing for garlic:
- Plant cloves 4 inches deep, with the tip about 2.5 to 3 inches below the soil surface.
- Space the cloves about 6 inches apart.
- Mulching with 6 inches or more of straw or shredded leaves is advised for insulation in fall and winter.
- In light soil, deeper planting can produce larger bulbs, but plant shallower in heavy soil to avoid rot.
- The flat end should be down and pointed end up when planting.
Overall, a planting depth of approximately 4 inches is optimal for size and winter protection of garlic bulbs.