Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Check if the soil is waterlogged or muddy.
- Gently dig around the bulb to feel for mushy tissue.
- Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves will turn yellow and wilt even if the soil feels wet. If you pull the bulb, the roots will look mushy and dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Improve drainage by adding perlite or organic matter to the soil if it stays soggy. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
White Rot
PossibleHow to tell: This is less common for this plant, usually caused by contaminated soil or infected planting stock. You will see white, fluffy fungal growth at the base of the bulb and yellowing leaves.
What to do: Remove and destroy any infected plants immediately, making sure to dig out all surrounding soil. Do not compost the infected material, as the fungus can persist for years. Avoid planting garlic in that specific spot for at least 5 years.
Find out what's wrong with your ail
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
If the bulb itself has turned into a soft, foul smelling mush, it is too late to save that plant. Remove it right away to protect the rest of your crop.
Stopping it coming back
Ensure your soil has excellent drainage and avoid overwatering during the final weeks before harvest. Rotate your crops every year to prevent soil borne diseases from building up.
Keep your ail healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- How often should I water my garlic?
- Water every 7 to 10 days, keeping the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Always check the soil moisture with your finger before adding more water.
- Can I save a plant with white rot?
- Unfortunately, there is no cure for white rot once it takes hold. The best course of action is to remove the plant and soil to prevent the fungus from spreading.
More problems with Ail
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.