How to Grow Garlic in Arizona

Garlic cultivation in Arizona presents unique challenges due to its hot and arid climate. In this article, we'll explore how to overcome these obstacles and grow thriving garlic crops in your Arizona garden – even if you have desert soil! From selecting the right varieties to managing irrigation, we'll cover everything you need to know to cultivate garlic successfully in the Grand Canyon State.

Here’s a quick summary:

• Choose softneck varieties,

• Plant as early as possible after the last frost,

• Provide lots of water and shade as the heat rises,

• Harvest earlier than other states, around May to June.

Want more detail? Lets dig in!

Gardening in Arizona

Arizona's diverse landscapes span multiple USDA hardiness zones, ranging from Zone 5 in the cooler northern regions to Zone 10 in the southern desert areas. Average temperatures vary widely across the state, with hot summers and mild winters in lower elevations, while higher elevations experience cooler temperatures and even occasional snowfall.

Arid conditions prevail throughout much of the state, with low humidity and limited rainfall. Extreme heat and drought are common challenges, particularly during the summer months, making water management so important! Getting the garlic watered is crucial for successful garlic growing in Arizona's desert environment.

Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson, where many of our garlic readers live in Arizona, share similar weather patterns characterized by scorching summers and mild winters. That’s great for us but not so much for garlic. Additionally, the soil tends to be sandy or clay-like, often alkaline due to the desert environment.

To determine soil composition accurately, we always recommend using at-home soil testing kits. With your soil results, you can correct nutrients and soil types through compost and fertilizers. Typically, garlic likes a little nitrogen and well-draining soil, but it’s not fussy!

Learn more in our article How to Plant Garlic.

When to Plant Garlic in Arizona

In Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson, garlic is typically planted in late fall or early winter, around October to November. However, timing can vary slightly based on microclimates within these cities. The main challenge you’ll face in Arizona is the intense summer heat, which can stress garlic plants. Therefore, planting early enough to allow the bulbs to establish roots before temperatures rise is super important! Additionally, providing sufficient irrigation and shade during the hottest months can help ensure your garlic lasts long enough to be harvested and used in delicious garlic recipes.

When to Harvest Garlic

In Arizona, garlic is typically ready to harvest in late spring or early summer, around May to June. Signs that garlic is ready for harvesting include yellowing and drying foliage, with about half of the leaves turned brown. The bulbs should feel firm and plump when gently squeezed – just don’t break the skin or it won’t cure.

It's essential to monitor the plants closely to avoid leaving garlic in the ground too long, as the bulbs may start to split or deteriorate in the hot, dry conditions typical of Arizona. Harvesting too early can result in underdeveloped bulbs, so be careful.

FAQs

Can you grow garlic in the desert?

Yes, garlic can be grown in the desert regions of Arizona. However, it requires careful attention to watering and soil conditions due to the arid climate.

How to grow garlic in pots in Arizona?

To grow garlic in pots in Arizona, choose large containers with well-draining soil. Plant cloves in the fall, water regularly, and place the pots in a sunny location.

What is the best garlic variety to grow in Arizona?

Softneck garlic varieties like California Early and Inchelium Red tend to perform well in Arizona's climate. They are adaptable to various growing conditions and have good disease resistance.