by KYW's Fran Sorin

If you haven’t planted garlic this fall, it may not be too late, depending on what part of the country you live in.

A native of Central Asia, garlic has been cherished for thousands of years due to its unusual culinary use and medicinal abilities. Besides being a much used ingredient for a variety of cuisines, garlic has been used for a variety of illnesses including infections, high blood pressure, and colds.  It is also an aphrodisiac.

There are literally hundreds of garlic varieties, each possessing a distinct appearance and flavor.  How a garlic tastes and its growth habit depends on the soil, climate, and growing methods.

Garlic likes full sun with regular watering and rich, well-drained soil. Garlic should be planted in mid-fall, ideally about 6 weeks before the soil freezes. Mulch heavily after planting.

Contact Fran Sorin at fransorin.com.