Easy Tips for Harvesting and Storing Garlic

Growing garlic is a lot of fun; it is easy and simple, and harvesting and storing garlic can also be fun and easy. This article will provide you with several tips for harvesting and storing garlic.

Harvesting Garlic

Do not pull garlic when you are harvesting it. No matter how small the clove was when you planted it, it will establish a strong root system by the time it is ready to be harvested. Instead of pulling garlic to remove it from the ground use a small hand shovel to dig it out. Start by digging around the base of the topset. Remember to allow enough room to not hurt the garlic bulb. Remove the soil around the garlic bulb and pop it out by placing the shovel underneath the bottom of the bulb.

When deciding when to harvest your garlic there are a few easy tips that will help you out. The garlic will be ready to harvest when the lower leaves turn a brown color. Sometimes harvesting can be tricky, but you can test the readiness of your garlic crop by removing a bulb and slicing it down the middle. If the cloves have filled the skin of the bulb then the garlic is ready for harvest. If you harvest your garlic too early it will produce a smaller yield and not store as well. If you harvest too early the bulbs will bust out of the skin and disease prone.

Storing Garlic

After you have dug out your garlic bulbs you must consider how you will store it. Well stored garlic will provide flavor all winter long. Start by brushing the dirt off of the bulbs completely. You must then allow the bulbs to dry for 3 or 4 weeks. A shady spot outdoors or a well ventilated room in your home is a good choice for the curing process of storing your garlic.

As you are drying your garlic you will notice the leaves and roots start to dry out. When they are dried you can cut them off. Be careful not to harm the bulb itself. You may also remove some of the outer skin as long as the cloves do not become exposed. After your garlic is cured store it in a cool place like a basement or refrigerator.

Harvesting and storing garlic is a good way to provide yourself with a unique and easy garden experience as well as a delicious addition to your cooking. These easy tips will make harvesting and storing garlic easy.