When to harvest garlic?

When to Harvest Garlic?

Garlic is a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and growing your own garlic can be a rewarding experience. However, one of the most common questions that garlic growers ask is when to harvest their garlic. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide some tips on how to ensure a successful harvest.

When to Harvest Garlic?

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of garlic you are growing, the climate and weather conditions in your area, and the stage of growth of your garlic plants. Generally, garlic is ready to harvest when the tops of the plants begin to yellow and fall over, which is usually around 3-4 months after planting.

Timing of Harvest

Here are some general guidelines for harvesting garlic at different stages of growth:

• Early harvest: For early harvest, you can harvest the garlic when the tops of the plants are still green and the cloves are small. This is usually around 2-3 months after planting. Early harvest garlic is often used for scapes, which are the curly green shoots that grow from the top of the garlic bulb.
• Main harvest: For the main harvest, you can harvest the garlic when the tops of the plants have begun to yellow and fall over. This is usually around 3-4 months after planting. Main harvest garlic is often used for cooking and is typically larger and more flavorful than early harvest garlic.
• Late harvest: For late harvest, you can harvest the garlic when the tops of the plants have turned brown and the cloves are fully mature. This is usually around 5-6 months after planting. Late harvest garlic is often used for storage and can be kept for several months.

Signs of Readiness

Here are some signs to look for to determine if your garlic is ready to harvest:

• Yellowing of the tops: The tops of the garlic plants will begin to yellow and fall over as they mature. This is a sign that the garlic is ready to harvest.
• Softening of the cloves: The cloves of garlic will begin to soften and become more pliable as they mature. This is a sign that the garlic is ready to harvest.
• Scent: Garlic has a distinct scent that becomes more pronounced as it matures. If you gently dig up a clove and it has a strong, pungent smell, it is likely ready to harvest.

How to Harvest Garlic

Here are some tips on how to harvest garlic:

• Dig carefully: When harvesting garlic, it is important to dig carefully to avoid damaging the cloves. Use a fork to gently loosen the soil around the garlic plant, then lift the plant out of the ground.
• Remove the tops: Once you have harvested the garlic, remove the tops of the plants to prevent the cloves from sprouting.
• Cure the garlic: After harvesting, it is important to cure the garlic to prevent mold and mildew from forming. To cure garlic, tie the bulbs in bunches and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place.

Tips for Harvesting Garlic

Here are some additional tips for harvesting garlic:

• Harvest in the morning: It is best to harvest garlic in the morning, when the soil is still cool and the plants are at their most receptive.
• Use a sharp tool: When harvesting garlic, it is important to use a sharp tool to avoid damaging the cloves.
• Harvest in dry weather: It is best to harvest garlic in dry weather, as wet weather can cause the garlic to rot.
• Harvest in a single motion: When harvesting garlic, it is best to harvest in a single motion, rather than digging up the plant and then removing the cloves. This will help to avoid damaging the cloves and prevent them from sprouting.

Garlic Harvesting Chart

Here is a chart to help you determine when to harvest your garlic:

Conclusion

Harvesting garlic can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful attention to the stage of growth of your garlic plants. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a successful harvest and enjoy the flavor and nutritional benefits of homegrown garlic.