Traditionally garlic is planted on the shortest day and harvested on the longest day, however it can be planted in both autumn and winter. Growing your own garlic is fun and you get to the reward of eating your crop. Here are my tips on how to grow garlic successfully at home. Garlic prefers a well-worked soil with good drainage and lots of organic matter. Don’t fear if your soil type is not perfect, garlic is a tough plant that can adjust to many soil types. Select a sunny spot and ensure soil is well-drained with plenty of organic matter.