How to Grow Indoor Garlic (Bulbs and Greens in One Pot)

by | Aug 20, 2025 | Fruit/Vegetables, Grow Your Own

Garlic cloves sprouting in a small indoor pot on a windowsill

How to Grow Indoor Garlic (Bulbs and Greens in One Pot)

Garlic is one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow indoors. Whether you’re after flavorful bulbs or fresh green garlic shoots, all it takes is a small container, some good soil, and the right conditions. Growing garlic inside your home means you’ll always have fresh flavor and even some natural pest-fighting power right at your fingertips.

Let’s walk through how to grow garlic indoors — the simple way — with tips to help it thrive.

Why Grow Garlic Indoors?

  • Year-round harvests – No need to wait for spring or summer.

  • Saves space – Perfect for windowsills, small containers, or grow shelves.

  • Low maintenance – Garlic is resilient and easy to grow with minimal effort.

  • Multipurpose harvest – Get both garlic greens (great for cooking) and bulbs.

What You’ll Need to Grow Garlic Indoors

  • Organic garlic bulbs (avoid store-bought if treated not to sprout)

  • Potting mix with good drainage

  • Container (minimum 6 inches deep with drainage holes)

  • Sunlight (6+ hours of indirect light or a grow light)

  • Watering can or spray bottle

How to Plant Garlic Indoors (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose the Right Garlic

  • Softneck garlic is ideal for indoor growing due to its milder climate needs.

  • Break apart the bulb into individual cloves but leave the papery skin intact.

2. Prepare the Container

  • Use a pot at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes.

  • Fill with quality potting mix, leaving about an inch from the top.

3. Plant the Cloves

  • Push each clove (pointy end up) 2 inches into the soil.

  • Space them 3 inches apart.

  • Cover gently and water thoroughly.

4. Provide the Right Conditions

  • Place in a sunny windowsill or under a grow light.

  • Keep soil lightly moist but not soaked.

  • Maintain indoor temperatures of 15°C to 22°C.

When and How to Harvest Garlic

For Garlic Greens

  • Start harvesting tender green shoots once they reach 6-8 inches tall.

  • Trim with scissors and leave the bulb in the soil to continue growing.

For Garlic Bulbs

  • Bulbs typically take 8-10 months to mature indoors.

  • Wait until the lower leaves start yellowing, then stop watering for a week.

  • Gently dig out the bulbs, brush off soil, and cure in a dry, airy place for 7-10 days.

Best Containers & Tools for Indoor Garlic

  • Fabric pots help prevent overwatering

  • Moisture meters ensure accurate watering levels

  • Grow lights boost growth in low-light conditions

Try this top-rated indoor grow light on Amazon UK
Check out this reliable moisture meter

Common Issues with Indoor Garlic

  • Cloves not sprouting – Use fresh, organic garlic that hasn’t been treated.

  • Yellowing leaves – Could mean overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.

  • Mold or rot – Improve air circulation and don’t let water sit in trays.

Final Thoughts on Growing Garlic Indoors

Growing garlic indoors is simple, space-efficient, and rewarding. Whether you’re slicing green shoots into your next stir-fry or harvesting full bulbs in a few months, it’s a satisfying way to grow your own food. Garlic also helps repel pests, making it a great companion plant on your indoor shelf.

You don’t need a garden to enjoy the benefits of homegrown garlic. With a sunny window and a little care, anyone can grow fresh garlic right in their kitchen.

For more science-backed tips, check out this helpful guide from the University of Minnesota Extension.

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