Reaping Top Garlic Calls for Odorly Procession

Question: When should I stop watering the garlic I planted in November, and how do I know when it is ready to harvest?

Is there a proper way to store it once it is harvested?

R.D., San Clemente

Answer: It is important to continue watering the garlic regularly, especially in spring when bulbs are forming. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

There are two types of garlic--hardneck (which tends to do better in cooler climates) and the softneck type.

In late spring, hardneck varieties send up a stiff central stem ending in a pigtail curlicue and false seed-head on top. Remove this to redirect energy into formation of the bulb.

Eventually you will see the leaves of both types start to turn brown, bend over and dry out, usually in early summer. Stop watering at this point. Bulbs are ready to harvest when about 40% of the leaves have died back.

Don’t wait too long, as overmature bulbs can split apart, let moisture in, causing the bulbs to mold. Bulbs harvested before their white outer sheath breaks open (exposing the cloves) will store better.

If left in the ground too long, hardneck garlic is more prone to decay than softneck garlic. To harvest garlic, loosen the soil with a garden fork and pull the entire bulb out. Trim the roots to a half-inch and brush off the soil that clings to the bulb. Garlic can be stored with or without the stems.

To cure garlic:

Do not cure the garlic bulbs in the sun. They will cook. Let them cure inside, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area for several weeks. You can spread out the bulbs in a single layer on screens or slatted shelves or hang them to dry. If you wish to braid and hang softneck garlic, do so just after harvest while the leaves are still pliable.

Storage of garlic:

Garlic does not keep well in cold, damp refrigerators or in plastic bags, where air circulation is reduced.

For best keeping quality, store it in a cool, dry place with plenty of air circulation.

They store best at 50% to 70% humidity at room temperature. Hardnecks last three to six months and softnecks six to nine months. As garlic ages, its moisture level is reduced. Eventually a shoot grows from the center of the clove. The flavor and texture of the clove deteriorates as this shoot grows.

Have a problem in your yard? University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners are here to help. These trained and certified horticultural volunteers are dedicated to extending research-based, scientifically accurate information to the public about home horticulture and pest management. They are involved with a variety of outreach programs, including the UCCE Master Garden hotline, which provides answers to specific questions. You can reach the hotline at (714) 708-1646 or send e-mail to ucmastergardeners @yahoo.com. Calls and e-mail are picked up daily and are generally returned within two to three days.