6. Cultivate Garlic and Shallots for Next Spring
Autumn is not just about harvesting immediate crops; it is also the time to plant the foundation for next spring’s bounty. Garlic and shallots are unique because they require a period of cold dormancy, known as vernalization, to develop proper bulbs. Planting them in mid-to-late autumn allows them to develop strong root systems before the ground freezes, giving them a massive head start when the soil warms up in the spring.
To plant garlic, select high-quality seed garlic from a reputable nursery rather than using grocery store cloves, which may be treated to prevent sprouting. Break the bulbs into individual cloves, keeping the papery skin intact, and plant them pointed-end up about two inches deep and six inches apart in well-draining soil. Cover the bed with a thick, four-to-six-inch layer of straw or shredded leaves. This heavy mulch protects the cloves from extreme temperature fluctuations and prevents the soil from heaving during winter freeze-and-thaw cycles.