Society garlic (Tulbaghia Violacea) is a fast-growing, evergreen perennial that is native to South Africa. It has long, slender leaves that are light green in color and blooms clusters of purple or lavender flowers from late spring to early summer.
Society garlic is a drought-tolerant plant that does well in full sun to partial shade and can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide. It is an excellent choice for use as a border plant, ground cover, or in containers.
Society garlic is relatively easy to grow and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can become invasive in some areas, so it is important to check with your local Cooperative Extension office before planting. To grow society garlic, simply sow the seeds in well-drained soil in late spring or early summer.
The plants will self-seed freely, so deadhead the spent flowers if you do not want them to spread. Society garlic is a versatile plant that is sure to add interest to your garden.
Soil
Society garlic is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, but it prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). It’s also important to make sure that the soil is well-drained, as this plant does not tolerate soggy conditions.
If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, you may need to amend it with some organic matter before planting society garlic.
Watering
Society garlic is a herbaceous perennial that grows in clumps and produces clusters of fragrant, delicate lavender flowers. It is native to South Africa and thrives in warm, dry climates.
Though it is drought-tolerant, watering Society garlic regularly will encourage faster growth and more abundant flowering. The best time to water is early in the morning so that the foliage has time to dry before nightfall, preventing fungal diseases.
Water thoroughly, applying enough to wet the entire root zone. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Fertilize Society garlic monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Society garlic can be propagated by division in spring or autumn. It can also be grown from seed, though it takes longer to flower this way.
Flowering
The flowers of society garlic are white or lilac in color and have six petals. Society garlic is a popular landscaping plant, and it can also be grown in containers. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Society garlic is drought tolerant and does not require much fertilizer.
The plant blooms from spring to summer. Deadheading the flowers will encourage continuous flowering. Society garlic is also a good choice for cut flowers.
Fruiting
Society garlic is a perennial herb that is grown for its fruiting. The plant produces small, four-petaled white flowers that develop into small, blue-black fruits. The fruits are slightly sour and have a peppery flavor. Society garlic is native to South Africa, but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world.
The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and does not require much fertilizer. Society garlic can be propagated from seed, division, or cuttings. However, it is best to start with transplants from a nursery.
The plants can be transplanted into the garden in spring or fall. Society garlic can also be grown in containers. When growing society garlic in containers, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and has drainage holes.
Fill the pot with a well-drained potting mix and plant the transplants at the same depth as they were growing in the nursery pots. Water the plants well after transplanting and keep them evenly moist throughout the growing season.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Society garlic can be harvested beginning in late summer or early fall.
Propagation
Society garlic is easy to propagate by division or seed. However, it can also be propagated by bulbs, corms, or rhizomes.
The division is the most common method of propagation, as it is easy to do and results in rapid growth. To propagate by division, simply dig up the bulb and replant it in a new location. For best results, division should be done in the spring or fall. If you are propagation by seed, start the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring.
Transplant the seedlings outside after they have grown two to three inches tall. Bulbs, corms, and rhizomes can be propagated at any time of year. To propagate by bulbs, simply plant the bulbs in a new location. Corms and rhizomes can be propagated by dividing them into smaller pieces and replanting them.
Pests and diseases
Pests and diseases can seriously affect the health of your Society Garlic plants. Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites are all common pests that can infest Society Garlic plants. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die.
Left unchecked, these pests can quickly decimate a plant. To prevent an infestation, regularly check your plants for signs of pests and take steps to control them accordingly.
Diseases are another major threat to Society Garlic plants. Common diseases include leaf spots, rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases cause the leaves to discolor and drop off the plant. In severe cases, the plant may die.
To prevent disease, water your plants at the base instead of overhead and remove any affected leaves as soon as possible.
Irritation to pets
Irritation to pets is the main concern with Society Garlic. All parts of the plant are considered Irritating, and removing them from the premises may be difficult. If you choose to grow Society Garlic, take necessary precautions to ensure that your pets do not come in contact with it.
Additionally, find out if your local animal shelters or rescue organizations will take in Irritated pets, as they may not be able to be cared for properly otherwise.
Irritation to pets can result in side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea, so it is important to be aware of the risks before deciding to grow Society Garlic.
