The Benefits of Planting Garlic, Onion, and Shallot Bulbs Instead of Seeds

Planting garlic, onion, or shallot bulbs in your garden has many advantages over growing them from seed. Not only does it save you time, but it also improves your yields and the overall health of your plants.

Summary

• Faster start with bulbils
• A shorter growing cycle
• Less risk of diseases and parasites
• Better productivity
• Advantages for growing in heavy soil
• Ease of maintenance

Faster start with bulbils

Planting bulbils instead of seeds gives your plants a significant boost. Unlike seeds, bulbils are already partially developed. They have a reserve of energy and nutrients that allows them to begin growing more quickly after planting. This means you'll see your garlic, onion, or shallot plants take root and develop sooner, providing a crucial advantage in regions with short growing seasons.

Seeds require a longer germination time, while bulbils allow immediate rooting, thus speeding up the growth cycle.

A shorter growing cycle

Growing from bulbils also shortens the growing cycle. Unlike seeds, which often take several weeks to germinate and produce visible growth, bulbils take much less time to reach full maturity. This allows gardeners to harvest earlier, and in some cases, plant a second crop during the same season.

The development of bulbils is in fact faster because they avoid the initial germination phase, a crucial stage which can be long with seeds.

Less risk of diseases and parasites

Plants grown from bulbils are often more resistant to disease and pests. Seeds, especially in humid or poorly drained environments, are vulnerable to fungi and rot. Bulbils, on the other hand, are more resistant to these adverse conditions thanks to their more mature structure. This reduces the need for pesticides or other treatments, promoting a more natural and ecological approach.

In addition, bulbils allow better management of heavy soils, limiting water stagnation which often affects seed germination.

Better productivity

Planting bulbils generally guarantees better productivity. Since bulbils are a clone of the parent plant, they faithfully reproduce its characteristics, particularly in terms of size and harvest quality. With seeds, there can be more genetic variability, which can result in less vigorous plants or lower yields.

This uniformity allows gardeners to have more predictable crops and a better planned harvest.

Advantages for growing in heavy soil

Heavy, clayey soils can be difficult to work, especially when planting seeds that require well-aerated soil conditions to germinate well. Bulbils, thanks to their size and robustness, can better establish themselves in this type of soil without requiring as much preparation. This makes bulbils a more practical choice for gardeners working in difficult soils.

Heavy soil, in particular, is often problematic for seed germination because it tends to compact and retain water. Bulbils overcome these difficulties thanks to their more resilient shape.

Ease of maintenance

Finally, planting bulbils simplifies maintenance. Unlike seedlings, which require regular thinning to avoid competition between plants, bulbils are planted at the correct spacing from the start. This allows for better control over planting density and reduces maintenance work throughout the season.

FAQ

Why are garlic bulbils preferred over seeds?

Bulbils allow for faster growth, less risk of disease and a more predictable harvest.

Are shallot bulbils easier to grow than seeds?

Yes, bulbils are easier to plant and require less maintenance, especially in heavy or difficult soils.

What is the difference between planting seeds and bulbils?

Seeds take longer to germinate and are more susceptible to disease, while bulbils start faster and are more resistant.

Do bulbils give better yields than seeds?

Generally, yes. The bulbils are cloned and retain the characteristics of the mother plant, ensuring more reliable yields.

Can bulbils be planted in all seasons?

Bulbils are usually planted in spring or fall, depending on the climate and type of crop.

Are bulbils better for beginner gardeners?

Absolutely. They are easier to plant and maintain, making them ideal for beginner gardeners.