Garlic for newbie

[gadgetman]

Looking at some early Purple Wight.

Is Garlic a hungry feeder? Does it need protection from frost?

Once I've evacuated my raised bed form this year, I'm looking at growing some so it's not empty to deter the local cats from using it over winter.

[bobleponge]

Gadgetman,
My garlic (home saved from one shop bought one about 3 years ago) will be going in around November time, and are traditionally pulled (my tradition anyway) on the longest day.
I put it in my raised beds, which are predominantly rotted horse/cow manure and straw, with garden compost and a few bags of general purpose cheap soil.
I dont cover it, protect it, feed it or do anything other than let it grow, and check it pretty often to ensure the birds/rodents havent pulled it out of the ground.
This year was my best crop of garlic ever, and am looking forward to an even better one next year.