Central Florida Softneck Garlic Growing Class

Central Florida Softneck Garlic Growing Class

Saturday, November 8 , 2025

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Instructor: Dawson Amico

Think garlic can’t grow in Florida? Think again. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll debunk the myth and show you how to grow tasty, long storing softneck garlic in Central Florida’s unique climate. From choosing the right variety to planting techniques, you’ll learn how to work with our subtropical winters to produce bulbs you can harvest in late spring.

Softneck garlic (Allium sativum) is the key to success in Florida gardens. With the right preparation and timing, you can enjoy homegrown garlic that competes with anything from cooler climates. We’ll discuss everything from chilling your cloves to preparing the soil, irrigation, and curing for storage. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, you’ll leave feeling confident and ready to plant.

Learn About:

· Why softneck garlic thrives where hardneck varieties often fail.

· Best planting times for Central Florida.

· How to mimic winter chill.

· Selecting and preparing cloves for planting.

· Soil preparation, spacing, and irrigation tips for healthy growth.

· Managing pests and diseases naturally.

· Harvesting, curing, and storing for long-term use.

· How to save cloves for next season's crop.

At the end of the class, you’ll take home softneck garlic cloves ready to plant this winter, plus a printed growing guide so you can enjoy your own harvest by late spring.

Registration includes admission to the beautiful Gardens before or after class.

Dawson Amico lives in Orlando, FL (growing zone 9B/10A) and is passionate about growing food and habitat restoration. He co-founded Monarch Urban Farm, a native, edible, and medicinal plant nursery in Oviedo. As the former Fleet Farming Manager, Dawson managed 15 front yard micro-farms and orchards, overseeing crop planning, seasonal rotation, and farmers market operations. He also developed and taught hands-on classes known as Living Learning Classes. Now, as the founder of Hospitable Harvests, Dawson shares his knowledge and passion for sustainable growing, offering guidance and maintenance to gardeners at any stage of their journey.

Participants must withdraw from classes at least 5 days prior to the start of class in order to receive a full refund or credit. If we must cancel a class, we will make every effort to inform you prior to the class time, and you will receive a full refund or credit.

Only those registered for the class will be permitted in the classroom. Childcare services are not provided

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Host or Publisher Harry P. Leu Gardens