When should I harvest garlic?
When should I harvest garlic?
Harvest garlic when the foliage begins to dry. In Iowa, garlic is usually harvested in August or September. Carefully dig the bulbs with a garden fork or shovel. Dry the garlic in a warm, dry, well-ventilated location. Place the garlic on an elevated wire screen or slotted tray to promote drying. When the tops have dried, cut off the dry foliage 1 inch above the bulbs. Also, trim off the roots and brush off any loose soil. Place the bulbs in a mesh bag or open crate and store in a cool (32 to 40°F), dry (65 to 70 percent relative humidity) area. Garlic can be stored for 3 to 6 months if properly dried and stored. An alternate way to store garlic is to braid the foliage together immediately after harvest, dry, and then hang the braided garlic in a cool, dry location.
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