The Ultimate Guide to Fall Garlic Planting in Zone 5b

Fall is here at Honey Bee Gardens Farm — the air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and our gardens are buzzing with one of our favorite traditions: planting German Extra Hardy garlic.

If you want big, bold, flavorful bulbs next summer, the secret is simple: plant your garlic this fall. In The Ultimate Guide to Fall Garlic Planting in Zone 5b, we’ll share why fall planting works best, why German Extra Hardy garlic thrives in Zone 5b, and our step-by-step process for planting like a pro.

🍂 Why Plant Garlic in the Fall

Planting garlic in the fall gives it a head start before winter arrives. By tucking cloves into cool soil now, you set the stage for a robust harvest next summer.

Why fall planting beats spring planting:

• Bigger bulbs: Roots establish before the freeze, leading to more vigorous plants.

• Better flavor: Winter chill improves clove size and taste.

• Less spring stress: Garlic gets a natural jumpstart while you focus on other crops.

  
  

At Honey Bee Gardens Farm, we’ve learned that planting in October sets us up for the best yields, boldest flavor, and easiest care come summer.

🧄 Why We Grow German Extra Hardy Garlic

Not all garlic varieties are created equal — and in Illinois, German Extra Hardy is our go-to. Here’s why:

• Built for Midwest winters: Thrives even in the coldest conditions.

• Rich, bold flavor: Perfect for cooking, preserving, and enjoying fresh.

• Consistent yields: Year after year, it delivers dependable, uniform bulbs.

  
  

We’ve been growing German Extra Hardy for seasons, and it’s become a signature crop at Honey Bee Gardens Farm. Our community loves its flavor, reliability, and quality — and we think you will, too.

🗓 When to Plant Garlic in Zone 5b

Timing is everything when it comes to garlic. In Zone 5b, we recommend:

• Ideal planting window: Mid-October through early November

• Soil temperature: Below 60°F but above freezing

• 🔥 Pro tip: Wait until you’re wearing a sweatshirt in the garden most days — nature knows when it’s time.

Planting too early risks premature sprouting; planting too late prevents roots from establishing before the onset of freezing temperatures. Aim for that sweet spot, and your garlic will thrive.

📖 Step-by-Step Garlic Planting Guide

1. Prep Your Soil

• Choose a sunny, well-drained location.

• Work in compost or aged manure for rich, fertile soil.

• Avoid compacted beds — loose soil promotes strong root growth.

2. Select & Prepare Cloves

• Pick the largest, healthiest bulbs.

• Separate cloves gently, leaving papery skins intact.

• Discard small or damaged cloves for the best results.

3. Plant Your Garlic

• Depth: 2–3 inches deep

• Spacing: 4–6 inches between cloves, 12 inches between rows

• Orientation: Pointed side up, flat root side down

4. Mulch Generously

• Cover beds with 3–4 inches of straw, shredded leaves, or compost.

• Mulch protects against freeze-thaw cycles and insulates young roots.

5. Water Wisely

• Water thoroughly after planting.

• Keep soil slightly moist until the ground freezes — then let winter do the rest.

👩‍🌾 Caring for Garlic Through Winter & Spring

Your garlic will sleep through winter, quietly developing roots beneath the soil. Come spring, green shoots emerge early, eager for sun.

• Leave mulch on until consistent warmth returns in April.

• Fertilize lightly in spring to support rapid growth.

• Keep beds weed-free to give your garlic the space it needs.

🌱 Harvesting Your Garlic

Patience pays off by mid to late July:

• Watch for 3–4 yellowing lower leaves — that’s your signal to harvest.

• Loosen soil gently and pull bulbs by hand.

• Cure garlic in a warm, shaded, airy spot for 1-2 weeks.

  
  

Proper curing keeps your garlic flavorful, firm, and ready to enjoy for months.

🐝 Grow With Us at Honey Bee Gardens Farm

At Honey Bee Gardens Farm, German Extra Hardy garlic isn’t just a crop — it’s a seasonal tradition we look forward to every year. We love sharing our tips and helping local gardeners bring their gardens to life.

Planning your own garlic patch this fall?

• Stop by the farm and see how we plant ours.

• Join our newsletter for seasonal gardening tips, upcoming events, and farm updates.

📝 Quick Garlic Planting Checklist

✅ Plant mid-October to early November

✅ Choose large, healthy cloves

✅ Plant 2–3 inches deep, 4–6 inches apart

✅ Mulch heavily to protect roots

✅ Harvest mid to late July