Harvest Time
Dick’s Stinkin’ Good Garlic
Harvesting Garlic
Pick at peak maturity, handle gently, and cure correctly for flavorful, long-storing bulbs.
When Is It Ready?
- Lower leaves yellow and dry; 4–5 green leaves remain.
- Usually 3–4 weeks after scape removal for hardneck types.
- Do a test dig: bulbs should be full with distinct clove “shoulders.”
Pre-harvest: Reduce watering 5–7 days before digging; choose a dry day if possible.
How to Harvest
- Loosen soil with a garden fork alongside the row to avoid stabbing bulbs.
- Lift bulbs by the base—don’t yank by the stalks.
- Brush off loose soil; keep outer wrappers intact. Do not wash.
Curing
- Hang in bundles or lay in a single layer on racks in shade with airflow.
- Cure 2–4 weeks until skins are papery and necks/roots are dry.
- After curing, trim roots and cut stalks to ~1". Don’t over-peel.
Storage
- Cool (50–60°F), dry, and ventilated space.
- Use mesh bags, crates, or braids (softneck).
- Avoid sealed containers and sunlight.
Too Early vs. Too Late
| Timing Error | What Happens | Fix Next Time |
|---|---|---|
| Harvested too early | Small bulbs, thin wrappers, poor storage | Wait for 3–4 green leaves remaining |
| Harvested too late | Split wrappers, exposed cloves, rot risk | Test dig earlier; watch leaf count |
© Dick’s Stinkin’ Good Garlic