I'm not an expert but I think that you will find that your cloves will make their root system before you see any sign of shoots next year. Be patient!

Thanks. I think I'm being a little impatient too! Just wondering how common it is for the shoots to appear in Autumn/winter rather than spring.

Not sure...I suspect it depends on how soon the cloves are planted; October being the normal time I think.

I think you may have planted them a little too deep. I have found that planting them with just the tip out ofthe ground works here in Norfolk. Planted mine about 5 weeks ago and now have 2-3 inches of green shoot.

2 inches is ok I think. They should come through fine in spring, just leave them alone. Norfolkapple, I think there is not such a hard and fast rule for them so yours answer is fine too. Garlic is very adaptable and will just grow anyway!

thanks, I went for 2 inches because the soil I prepared was very light, I read to plant them shallower if the soil is heavier.