Timing is everything when planting your alliums for a bountiful harvest

Gardening · Published 7 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In Australia, the secret to successful garlic and onion crops lies in the calendar. While some believe garlic must follow the sun's longest and shortest days, local experts suggest a different approach. Mastering the timing and soil preparation for these essential vegetables can transform your garden's yield.

For gardeners in Australia, the prime window for planting alliums—including garlic, leeks, onions, and spring onions—is April. This timing is critical for success. Although folklore claims garlic requires planting during winter's shortest day and harvesting during its longest, such advice might suit Europe or the UK; however, Australian growers must sow their crops much sooner to ensure success.

Garlic cultivation requires specific care to trigger growth. To encourage shooting, cloves should be planted in furrows so they receive a touch of frost. When planting, spacing is vital: garlic and elephant garlic bulbs require 15cm of distance, potato onions need 20cm, and seedlings should be spaced at 10cm. While seedlings require watering, avoid watering bulbs directly, as they are prone to rotting.

Soil quality is the foundation of a great harvest. For both garlic and salad onions, incorporating organic matter is invaluable. Experts recommend adding a bucket of well-rotted or aged manure—never fresh manure, which can lower pest resistance—or a barrow load of homemade compost per square metre. For garlic, adding a tight fistful of dolomite per square metre can help sweeten the soil.

The diversity of these crops is immense. Globally, there are likely over 1000 different garlic cultivars, with more than 100 varieties available in Australia alone to suit different climates. For salad onions, which can be cylindrical like mini leeks or round with white tops, choosing hardy varieties is essential for early or late sowings.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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