In this informative article, “How to Harvest Garlic at the Perfect Time (And What Happens When You Harvest Too Early or Too Late),” you will be taken on a journey with Jill from Beginner’s Garden. She will guide you through harvesting garlic, including the signs to look out for to know when your garlic is nearing harvest. You’ll also learn about the difference between soft neck garlic and hard neck garlic and the importance of cutting off garlic scapes. Jill will explain how to determine when your garlic is ready to harvest and the consequences of harvesting too early or too late. She will also share examples of garlic harvested incorrectly and showcase a successful garlic harvest that can last your family all year. If you’re new to garlic gardening or want to ensure a bountiful harvest, this article is a must-read!
Signs to Look for When Garlic is Nearing Harvest
Leaves turning yellow
One of the signs that garlic is nearing harvest is when the leaves start to turn yellow. As the garlic plants mature, the lower leaves will fade in color and turn yellow. This natural process indicates that the plant is redirecting its energy from leaf growth to bulb development. Once you notice the yellowing of the leaves, it is a good indication that your garlic is close to being ready for harvest.
Formation of scapes
Another sign to look for when garlic is nearing harvest is the formation of scapes. Scapes are the long, curly flowering shoots that emerge from the center of the garlic plant. These scapes can be beautiful with their unique shapes and often add a whimsical touch to the garden. However, when it comes to harvesting garlic, scapes indicate that the plant is reaching maturity. Once the scapes form, it signals that the garlic bulbs are nearly ready to be harvested.
Bulb wrapper drying out
The drying out of the bulb wrapper is yet another sign that garlic is nearing harvest. The bulb wrapper refers to the papery skin that surrounds the garlic bulb. As the garlic plants mature, the bulb wrapper will dry out and become papery in texture. This is a clear signal that the garlic bulbs have developed fully and are ready to be harvested. The drying out of the bulb wrapper also makes it easier to peel off the skin once the garlic is harvested.
Difference Between Soft Neck Garlic and Hardneck Garlic
Soft neck garlic characteristics
As the name suggests, soft-neck garlic has a soft, pliable neck. The neck is the stem that connects the bulb to the leaves and scapes. Soft neck garlic usually has multiple layers of cloves and produces a tight, compact bulb. This type of garlic is known for its strong flavor and excellent storage qualities. Soft neck garlic is commonly used in cooking and can be braided together for easy storage.
Hardneck garlic characteristics
On the other hand, hard-neck garlic is characterized by a hard, central stem that does not allow for easy braiding. This type of garlic typically produces fewer cloves, but they are larger and easier to peel. Hardneck garlic also tends to have a milder flavor than softneck garlic. While it may not store as well as softneck garlic, hardneck garlic is often preferred by garlic enthusiasts for its unique taste and easy-to-peel cloves.
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Cutting Off Garlic Scapes
Purpose of garlic scapes
Garlic scapes serve an important purpose in the plant’s growth cycle. These curly shoots emerge from the center of the garlic plant and eventually produce a bulb or a small flower head. By cutting off the scapes, you redirect the plant’s energy toward bulb development instead of flower production. This allows the garlic bulbs to grow larger and fully mature. Additionally, cutting off the scapes helps prevent the plant from wasting energy on producing seeds and promotes stronger, healthier bulbs.
When to cut off garlic scapes
The ideal time to cut off garlic scapes is when they have fully curled but have not yet straightened out. Typically, this occurs about 3–4 weeks before the garlic is harvested. You can use garden shears or a sharp knife to make a clean cut, ensuring that you remove the entire scape. Once the scapes are removed, you can use them in your cooking or compost them. Cutting off the scapes at the right time will help promote better bulb development and improve the overall quality of your garlic harvest.
When Garlic is Ready to Harvest
Leaves turning brown
When garlic is ready to harvest, the leaves will turn brown. This is a natural part of the plant’s life cycle and indicates that the garlic bulbs have matured. As the leaves turn brown, the plant redirects its energy into the bulbs, allowing them to develop fully. It’s important to monitor the color change of the leaves, as it can help determine the optimal time for harvest.
The bulb wrapper is fully dry
Another sign that garlic is ready to harvest is when the bulb wrapper is fully dry. The bulb wrapper refers to the papery skin that surrounds the garlic bulb. As the garlic plants mature, the bulb wrapper will dry out and become papery in texture. This indicates that the garlic bulbs have finished developing and are ready to be harvested. The dry bulb wrapper also makes it easier to handle and store the garlic once harvested.
Easily removable soil from the bulb
One final sign that garlic is ready to harvest is when the soil around the bulbs can be easily removed. When garlic bulbs fully mature, the soil surrounding them tends to loosen, making it easier to lift the bulbs from the ground. By gently digging around the base of the garlic plants, you can check if the soil can be easily removed from the bulbs. If the soil clings tightly to the bulbs, it might indicate that the garlic is not quite ready for harvest. Wait until the soil can be easily brushed off before harvesting to ensure the best quality bulbs.
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Consequences of Harvesting Garlic Too Early
Less storage time
Harvesting garlic too early can result in less storage time for the bulbs. Garlic needs time to mature and develop its flavors fully. If garlic is harvested too early, the bulbs may not have had sufficient time to reach their full potential, resulting in a shorter shelf life. Properly matured garlic bulbs have a better chance of lasting throughout the storage period, allowing you to enjoy them for an extended period.
Smaller cloves
Another consequence of harvesting garlic too early is the formation of smaller cloves. Garlic cloves develop their size and fullness as the bulbs mature. If garlic is harvested prematurely, the cloves may be underdeveloped and smaller. This can impact the overall yield and quality of your garlic harvest. Allowing garlic to mature before harvesting fully increases the chances of obtaining larger, well-formed cloves.
Consequences of Harvesting Garlic Too Late
Clove separation
One consequence of harvesting garlic too late is clove separation. As garlic bulbs mature, the individual cloves can start to separate from one another. This can make it challenging to harvest the garlic bulbs intact. Separating cloves can also increase the risk of bruising and damage, which can affect the longevity and storage qualities of the garlic. Timing is crucial to avoid clove separation and ensure a successful garlic harvest.
Less curing ability
Additionally, harvesting garlic too late can result in reduced curing ability. Curing allows the freshly harvested garlic bulbs to dry in a warm, dry environment. This step is essential for enhancing the flavor and extending the storage life of garlic. If garlic is left in the ground for too long before harvest, it can lose its curing ability, preventing the bulbs from properly drying and curing. Proper timing ensures that the garlic bulbs have optimal curing and long-term storage qualities.
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Proper Harvesting for Longer Storage
Timing of harvesting
Harvesting at the right time is crucial to ensuring longer garlic storage. This means carefully monitoring the signs of maturity, such as the browning of the leaves, the drying out of the bulb wrapper, and easily removable soil. Harvesting garlic at the optimal time allows the bulbs to develop their flavors fully and ensures that they have the best chance of lasting throughout the storage period.
Lifting the bulbs
When harvesting garlic, it is important to lift the bulbs properly to minimize damage and maximize storage potential. Use a garden fork or shovel to carefully loosen the soil around the bulbs without harming them. Then, gently lift the bulbs from the ground, grasping the stems near the base. Avoid pulling or twisting the garlic, as this can cause damage to the bulbs and affect their quality. Handle the harvested garlic with care to maintain its integrity and storage potential.
Curing process
After harvesting, it is essential to cure the freshly harvested garlic before storing it. Curing involves drying the garlic in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for several weeks. This allows the garlic to develop its flavors further, improve its storage qualities, and reduce the risk of mold or rot. Hang the garlic in bundles or spread it on a rack, keeping the bulbs well-ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Monitor the curing process and ensure the garlic is completely dry before moving it into long-term storage.
Longevity of Properly Harvested Garlic
Storage duration of 9 to 12 months
When properly harvested and cured, garlic can last for an extended period. Expect properly stored garlic to remain in good condition for 9 to 12 months. Soft-neck garlic tends to have a longer storage life compared to hard-neck garlic. However, both types of garlic can be enjoyed throughout the year if harvested and stored correctly. Regularly check your stored garlic for any spoilage or deterioration to ensure it remains fresh and flavorful.
Proper storage conditions
To maximize the longevity of properly harvested garlic, storing it under the right conditions is crucial. Garlic should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment. Ideal storage temperatures range from 32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 10 degrees Celsius). Avoid storing garlic in areas that are too humid or prone to fluctuations in temperature. Keep the bulbs in a dark place to prevent them from sprouting prematurely. By providing optimal storage conditions, you can enjoy the flavors of your garlic harvest for months.
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Examples of Garlic Harvested Too Early and Too Late
Garlic harvested too early
If garlic is harvested too early, you may notice small, underdeveloped bulbs with cloves that are not fully formed. The flavor may be milder and less intense compared to properly matured garlic. The bulbs may also have a shorter shelf life and not store. Harvesting garlic too early can result in a disappointing yield and potentially lower-quality cloves.
Garlic harvested too late
On the other hand, if garlic is harvested too late, the bulbs may have separated cloves or started to sprout. The garlic flavor may be stronger and more pungent, but the bulbs may not store as well due to compromised curing ability. Harvesting garlic too late can also result in larger cloves that are difficult to peel and use in recipes. It is essential to strike the right balance and harvest garlic optimally to avoid these potential issues.
Additional Resources for Harvesting and Curing Garlic
For more information on harvesting and curing garlic, check out this informative video: [insert link to video]. This video provides step-by-step instructions and valuable tips to help you achieve a successful garlic harvest. It covers identifying signs of maturity, proper harvesting techniques, post-harvest handling, and long-term storage. Utilizing additional resources like this video can further enhance your knowledge and ensure a bountiful and flavorful garlic harvest.
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