importance

garlic is the second most important bulb crop grown through the country after the onion. It has long been recognized all over the world as a valuable spice for foods and a popular remedy for various ailments and physiological disorders. certified fresh garlic cloves are also rich source of carbohydrates, proteins, phosphorus and ascorbic acid (vitamin c). The uninjured farm fresh garlic bulb contains a colourless, odourless water-soluble amino acid i.e. Alliin. On crushing the garlic cloves the enzyme allinase breaks down alliin to produce allicin, which contains the sulphur rich compound called diallyl disulphide responsible for the true odour of garlic. the allicin present in garlic helps in reducing the cholesterol concentration in human blood and also acts as a blood purifier. The inhalation of garlic juice or oil has been recommended in cases of tuberculosis, sterility, impotency, cough and sore eyes. Garlic juice removes dandruff from the scalp and all types of spots from face. According to the ayurvedic systems garlic is carminative and gastric stimulant thus, aids in digestion and absorption of food. The arabians used all parts of garlic plant for the treatment of worms, snakebites, skin rashes and menstrual abnormalities. According to german physician it relieves constipation and eliminates flatulence. Chinese scientist has considered garlic as anticancerous properties. Their laboratory lists showed that it inhibits reproduction of toxic germs in the stomach, promotes secretion of gastric acid juice and stop synthesis of a carcinogen called nitrosamine.

production technology
the production and productivity of garlic in india is very low as compared to many other countries. Unawareness of the farmers about improved technology viz. High yielding varieties, congenial climate and soil, agro techniques, insect pest damaging the crop and their management though main reasons, inadequate market supply is also for limiting the production indirectly.

climate
it is a cool season crop. Higher yields are obtained under in a mild climate. It can tolerate frost up to some extent. During maturity of the bulbs, long days and dry weather are beneficial while short days and cool temperature favour vegetative growth. As son as bulbing commences leaf initiation ceases. Because of this reason, garlic should be planted early to promote vegetative growth under short days and cool weather.

soil
garlic can be grown on variety of soils but thrives better on fertile, well-drained loamy soils. The bulbs get discolored in badly drained soils and pulling the bulbs from hard soils caused spitted and bruised loosing its storage life. Ph should be in the range of 6-7.

varieties
ghc-1 : this is the most popular variety of garlic in kullu and mandi districts of hp. It is high yielding, fragrant, bigger size cloves which are easy for peeling. Average yield is 200-225 qha contains 15-18 cloves in single bulb, mature crop 230 to 250 days

sowing time
time of sowing of garlic depends on the altitude of the area where the crop is to be grown. however, in himachal pradesh the following sowing times are recommended