How to Mulch With Garlic

Gardeners often plant garlic bulbs in the fall so the bulbs can overwinter in the soil and be ready to harvest by spring. Mulching when planting with garlic bulbs helps keep the roots warm and insulated against frost. The mulch also prevents weed growth and keeps the soil's moisture content more consistent. To mulch with garlic, you must select the right type of mulch and apply the correct amount. If you use incorrect mulch, you may spread diseases among your garlic plants.

Things You'll Need

• Mulch
• Rake

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Select the mulch you want to use on your garlic plants. Use chopped leaves, seedless alfalfa hay, seedless grass hay or chopped reeds. Do not use wheat straw because it can spread disease.

   • 2

     Lay down a 4- to 6-inch layer of the mulch over your garlic beds. Use a rake to make the layer even.

   • 3

     Rake the mulch back to a 2-inch layer once the last spring frost passes. This will allow sufficient air circulation and sunlight during the warmer spring weather.