Most people use garlic only in the kitchen, but few realize that this small, powerful bulb has surprising benefits for plants and gardens.
Placing a single clove of garlic in the soil near the base of a plant is a traditional gardening trick that has been passed down for generations.
It’s simple, inexpensive, and incredibly useful — and once people understand why it works, many choose to try it themselves.

Here are the real reasons gardeners put garlic around their trees and plants, and why the results often feel impressive.

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1. Garlic helps repel harmful insects naturally

Garlic contains sulfur compounds that produce a strong smell insects dislike.
When placed in the soil, these natural chemicals slowly release into the surrounding area, creating a protective barrier.

This can help deter:

• aphids
• mites
• ants
• beetles
• caterpillars
• fungus gnats

Instead of using chemical sprays or pesticides, many gardeners prefer garlic because it provides gentle, natural protection without harming the plant.

Garlic doesn’t kill insects directly — it simply makes the environment less attractive to them.

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2. It can help reduce fungal problems in the soil

Fungal infections are one of the biggest threats to home gardens.
Root rot, mildew, and soil mold spread quickly, especially in warm or humid climates.

Garlic’s sulfur compounds act as a mild antifungal agent.
When a clove is buried near the plant’s roots, it can slow the growth of certain fungi and help keep the soil healthier.

This doesn’t replace proper watering or soil care, but it adds an extra layer of protection, especially for young or delicate plants
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3. Garlic helps deter pests like rodents and snails

Small animals such as mice, voles, snails, and even some species of slugs dislike the scent of garlic.
Placing garlic near the base of a plant helps discourage these pests from chewing on roots or leaves.

Gardeners often use garlic in vegetable gardens because it protects crops without toxic chemicals.

It’s a gentle, eco-friendly option for people who want a natural solution.

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4. It may boost soil health in small ways

As garlic breaks down over time, it releases trace minerals into the soil.
These minerals enrich the soil naturally and contribute to a healthier environment for roots.

Although it’s not a fertilizer, garlic can support overall soil quality, especially when combined with good watering and organic compost.

Some gardeners also believe garlic helps strengthen a plant’s natural defenses, making it more resilient to stress.

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5. Garlic can signal when soil conditions need improvement

If the garlic clove begins to rot too quickly or grows mold instead of sprouting, it can be a sign that the soil is:

• too wet
• poorly drained
• lacking air flow

In this way, garlic works almost like a natural soil indicator, helping gardeners diagnose small problems before they become serious.

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6. How to use garlic properly in your garden

The method is simple:

1. Peel one clove of garlic or use it with the skin on.

2. Bury it 2–3 cm deep near the base of the plant, but not touching the stem.

3. Replace it every few weeks or after heavy rainfall.

4. Use fresh cloves rather than dried ones for best effect.

Just one clove is enough — using too many may overwhelm the soil with a strong smell and attract animals instead of repelling them.

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7. This trick works best for indoor plants and small garden trees

Indoor plants often suffer from pests like gnats and mites.
Placing garlic in the soil can offer gentle, long-lasting protection.

For outdoor trees, garlic can help young saplings or small fruit trees stay healthier during early growth stages.

It is not a substitute for proper care, but it’s a helpful addition.

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Bottom line

Putting a piece of garlic near the base of a plant is an old but effective gardening tradition.
It helps repel pests, reduce fungal issues, and support healthier soil — all with a simple, natural ingredient most people already have at home.

Once you understand how it works, it’s easy to see why so many gardeners swear by this trick.
It’s inexpensive, chemical-free, and surprisingly useful.