When to plant Garlic in Washington County, AL
The best window to plant Garlic in Washington County, is mid-spring–late spring, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits March 12; first frost November 13. A second sowing from October 2 to October 16 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Garlic in Washington County, AL
Garlic is a pungent allium planted in fall and harvested the following summer. Hardneck varieties produce edible flower stalks (scapes) and are more cold-hardy.
Washington County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 246 days.
At an elevation of 419 feet, Washington County receives approximately 54.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Garlic may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Garlic, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Garlic root diseases.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Garlic
Garlic needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Garlic Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 5.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Washington County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Garlic Planting Timeline — Washington County, AL
Garlic Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Harvest | January 1 | Jan 1 – Jun 18 |
| Fall Sowing | October 2 | Oct 2 – Oct 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Harvest |
| February | Harvest |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–240 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
246 days in Washington County
Growing Tips for Washington County
Plant individual cloves pointed end up in fall, 6 weeks before ground freezes. Mulch heavily with straw. Harvest when lower leaves begin to brown but 5-6 green leaves remain.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Garlic in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Garlic in Washington County, AL?
Washington County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 12. Plan your Garlic planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, AL?
Washington County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 13.
When should I plant Garlic in Washington County, AL?
In Washington County, AL, plant Garlic after the last frost (around March 12) and before the first frost (around November 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Washington County, AL for Garlic?
Washington County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Garlic grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Garlic grow in Washington County's climate?
Yes — Garlic grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 246-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 12 and first frost around November 13.
Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Washington County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.