Gardening expert advises Kurgan gardeners on garlic storage

How to store garlic properly so it lasts a long time? This is a common question among gardeners. Ekaterina Novoselova, head of plant protection at the Kurgan branch of Rosselkhoztsentr (Russian Agricultural Center), answered questions and gave advice to Kurgan gardeners.

To determine the harvest time, focus on the appearance of the plant.

Key signs of garlic readiness

Yellowing and drying of lower leaves. When about one-third or half of the stem is covered with wilted leaves, it«s time to dig.

If the flower stalk has straightened and the seed capsule has cracked — a sure sign.

Condition of the husk. In ripe garlic, the outer covering is dense, dry, often with purple veins. If the scales come off easily, the garlic is not yet ripe.

When garlic ripens, the stem loses elasticity and becomes soft — meaning the nutrients have transferred to the bulb.

The white roots turn light gray.

How to properly dig up garlic?

Ideally wait for the soil to dry completely so the bulbs are not soaked with moisture.

Do not pull garlic by the leaves — you can damage the base, and the bulb will spoil quickly. It is better to carefully loosen with a pitchfork.

Immediately after digging, gently shake off the soil with your hands.

Do not wash garlic before drying. Excess moisture slows drying and increases the risk of rot.

How to properly dry?

If weather permits, spread the bulbs in a single layer in the shade.

Do not dry in direct sunlight — it can cause burns, and the cloves will become soft.

Then place the harvest in a well-ventilated area: under a canopy, in the attic, in a shed. Drying time is usually 2–3 weeks.

Determine readiness by the neck: it should be completely dry, thin, and rustling.

When and how to trim?

Cut the stem and roots only after complete drying.

Leave a stub of about 3–5 cm on the stems.

Shorten roots to 1–3 mm, trying not to damage the base.