Garlic plants produce long, curly flower stalks known as scapes that produce garlic-flavored edible stems before blooming to direct their energy towards producing larger bulbs. To optimize yield from these edible scapes harvest them before they bend or bloom for maximum harvest efficiency and to boost bulb production.
Elephant garlic (Allium ampeloprasum var. sativum) might look and taste similar to garlic, but its closest relative would actually be leeks. A biennial plant, it takes two growing seasons for one bulb to develop before splitting off into individual cloves.
Continue readingHardneck and softneck garlic require cold temperatures to form cloves; however, elephant garlic doesn’t. As with real garlic however, elephant garlic must still be cured after harvest in your vegetable garden.
Continue readingCompanion planting has been practiced for centuries to deter pests and improve plant growth. Garlic pairs well with cabbage, peppers and carrots because it confuses flies and maggots that attack these crops; additionally it acts as a natural fungicide against late potato blight and can enhance tomato flavour.
Continue readingSclerotium cepivorum thrives in cool, wet environments and often manifests itself through yellowed leaves and rotting stems. Furthermore, its effects may last decades before finally manifesting.
Continue readingGarlic plants thrive when protected from harsh winter winds. Water them sparingly throughout their growing season to avoid bulb rot occurring; excessive soil moisture could result in this issue. Once flower stalks (known as scapes) begin curling or turning brown, remove them as these take energy away from their bulbs and can result in bulb death.
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