The plant has roots that protrude from the base of the bulb that are made up of between 6 and 12 cloves. The stem is relatively short, about six centimetres long, and extends to just above the ground.
From there the flat grass-like leaves extend about 15 to 20 cm above ground. The leaves are similar to but are slightly different from onion and leeks in that they are flatter whereas the other Alliums have more rounded leaves.
Garlic can be grown in a wide climate range. The best temperature range during its growing season is between 12 and 28 degrees centigrade. It can withstand colder weather and warmer conditions but this reduces growth and bulb development.
It is sensitive to moisture stress because of its shallow root system. It is therefore advisable to plant under controlled irrigation and not rely on rainfall if consistent higher yields are desired.
There are two types of garlic. Soft neck garlic and hard neck garlic, and each type has many selections or varieties. The most popular type grown in South Africa is the soft neck types because they are hardier, and they can be stored for longer periods.
The soft neck garlic has more cloves than hard neck garlic which tends to have less, bigger cloves. What also protects the cloves of the soft neck garlic is that it has more outer papery skin layers surrounding the cloves which make up the ball.
Hard neck garlic has fewer and very thin outer skin layers and does not store well. Soft neck garlic varieties: Silverskin and Artichoke Hard neck garlic varieties: Rocambole, Porcelain and Purple Stripe
By Louise Brodie