Bout Garlic plant

Planting considerations for a healthy garlic crop

The presence of the stem and bulb, or ‘bloat’ nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) in garlic throughout New England requires that garlic growers take new precautions at planting time to ensure a healthy crop next year. Transport on seed is the primary means for spread of the bloat nematode from farm to farm and from garden to garden. Without a seed certification program in place some growers are wondering how they should source and treat new seed introduced onto the farm. The first step is to find sources of healthy-looking seed from reliable growers whose seed lots that have tested negative for Garlic Bloat Nematode (GNB). However, this result is not a guarantee that every bulb that the grower produced is free of bloat nematode; it is only a guarantee that the garlic used in the test is GBN free! Additionally, new seed may come with Fusarium or surface molds. To minimize risk of infesting established seed stock, and to promote healthy and vigorous garlic next year, include a few safeguards and best practices in your fall plans.