Winter garlic, typically planted in autumn for harvest after winter, may sprout prematurely due to warm autumn conditions. Here’s how to safeguard garlic from frost if it has germinated early.
Understanding the Issue: Winter garlic is resilient to winter but can suffer from frost damage if it sprouts prematurely in autumn. This can occur due to unusually warm weather disrupting its natural growth cycle.
Preventive Measures:
- Mulching: Cover sprouted garlic with a layer of mulch to insulate it from cold temperatures. Suitable mulching materials include fallen leaves, hay, straw, peat, lapnik, or sawdust. Apply a 7 cm thick layer of mulch during dry weather. For added protection against wind, use agrofibre on top.
- Consider Soil Conditions: Check soil acidity levels and potential insect threats. Incorporate onion peel into the mulch if necessary to deter pests.
- Planting Depth: To prevent premature sprouting, plant garlic cloves at a sufficient depth—around 10 cm for garlic heads and 15 cm for individual cloves. This depth helps shield the cloves from unpredictable weather changes.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your winter garlic remains protected and primed for a successful harvest after winter, despite early sprouting caused by warm autumn conditions.
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