Garlic Mustard Plant Care

Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) belongs to the Brassicaceae family within the Alliaria genus. Garlic Mustard is native to Europe, western and central Asia, north-western Africa, Morocco, Iberia and the British Isles, north to northern Scandinavia, and east to northern Pakistan and Xinjiang in western China. Garlic Mustard is also known as Hedge Garlic, Jack-by-the-hedge, Sauce-alone.

Garlic Mustard displays a clumping herb growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Garlic Mustard produces small white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Alliaria petiolata requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Garlic Mustard thrives in partial to full shade. Avoid placing Garlic Mustard in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Alliaria petiolata grows best at temperatures of 60–75°F. Garlic Mustard prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Garlic Mustard to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Garlic Mustard every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Garlic Mustard can be propagated through seeds.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Garlic Mustard is susceptible to aphids, cabbage worms, flea beetles. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Garlic Mustard grows outdoors in USDA Zone 3a – 10b. It survives winters down to planting zone 3a. Garlic Mustard is native to Europe, western and central Asia, north-western Africa, Morocco, Iberia and the British Isles, north to northern Scandinavia, and east to northern Pakistan and Xinjiang in western China.