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How well and how long it will be stored directly depends on when the garlic is harvested. It is often difficult to guess the time of harvest, because garlic ripens exactly at the time when there is most work in the garden. But, it is very important not to miss this important point, so that all the work is not in vain and the fruits are well preserved until the next harvest. Below you will see when to dig garlic in the Moscow region and how to do it correctly.
When to Harvest Garlic
Garlic harvesting directly depends on the weather conditions of the region, time and method of planting. The period of fruit ripening in different regions is approximately the same. But still, in some areas, spring is earlier, in others, on the contrary, it comes later. It depends on this when the active growth of the bulbs begins.
Weather conditions are also of great importance. In a moderately warm climate, the heads ripen faster, and at the end of July, you can start harvesting. If the summer turned out to be rainy with sudden changes in temperature, then you may have to dig out the bulbs ahead of time and leave them to dry in a dry room.
A lot also depends on the type of garlic:
- Winter garlic (or winter) is planted in the garden in the fall. Already in the spring, the heads will fully ripen, and it will be possible to remove it from the garden. Usually, such garlic is very large and high-yielding. It is distinguished by its erect and tall stems.
- Summer or spring garlic is planted in early spring. Already in the summer the bulbs can be harvested. This species is not so big, but it is stored much longer.
As you can see, there are many factors that determine the timing of the collection of bulbs. In order to do this on time, it is necessary to take into account all these points.
When to Harvest Winter Garlic
Winter garlic fully ripens by mid-July. In temperate regions, heads should be removed from the beds a week before the end of the month. In the Moscow region, this period may last a little longer, but not more than a week.
When to Dig Up Spring Garlic
This type, of course, ripens longer than the winter one. It is necessary to dig up spring garlic 2 weeks later than its early “relative”. Usually this time falls at the end of August. In colder climates, heads are only dug by September. Of course, it all depends on the weather conditions. Harvest times may vary slightly each year. Due to frequent rains, garlic can ripen even in mid-September.
How to determine the full ripeness of garlic
Experienced gardeners can easily determine the degree of ripeness of fruits in appearance. A sign that the fruits are already ripe will be yellowed and lowered lower leaves. If such a phenomenon is observed towards the end of July, then this, of course, indicates the ripeness of the fruit. If you notice dry leaves in the midst of the growing season, then most likely the garlic is sick or needs to be watered.
You can also determine the maturity of the fruit by the arrows that form on the plants somewhere in mid-June. In order for garlic to direct all its forces to the growth of fruits, it is customary to break out such arrows. But still, you can leave a couple of pieces, by which we will determine whether the fruits are ripe or not. In ripe garlic, the arrow is firm and straight. The seed box at the top should crack, and the seeds should show out. It is during this period that the bulbs are dug.
In this case, it is necessary to monitor the leaves and stems. In ripe garlic, they dry out and lie on the ground. Now you can check the maturity of the bulb by digging up one of the soil. If it is fully ripe, you will understand it by the following signs:
- dense and hard head;
- scales are located at least in 3 layers;
- easily separated teeth;
- The film is easily removed from the teeth.
It is very important to collect the bulbs on time. Otherwise, the heads may crack and expose the teeth. These fruits do not keep well fresh. In addition, they are not suitable for planting next year.
Harvesting and storage
One month before harvesting, stop watering the plants. And in 7 days it would be good to dig a little ground near the bulbs. Thus, the heads will ripen faster. It is necessary to harvest fruits from the garden on a warm day.
The collection process consists of the following steps:
- The fruits are dug up with a pitchfork or a shovel. Pulling the bulbs yourself is not recommended, as this can damage the teeth.
- After that, the remnants of the soil are removed from the bulbs with their hands. In no case should you shake or beat the garlic on the ground.
- The dug garlic is laid out in rows for further drying. In this form, the bulbs should be in the garden for at least 4 days.
- Now you can cut dry stems and leaves.
Some gardeners prefer to immediately remove the bulbs in a special room and only dry them there. Thus, you can protect the crop from sunburn and unexpected rains. True, the heads will dry out a little longer indoors than outdoors. In this case, the garlic will dry out in about 2 weeks. After complete drying, cut and sort the fruits by size.
Someone weaves bundles from bulbs and keeps them in limbo. Others put the heads in cardboard boxes and leave them in a dry room. To create better conditions, you can shift the layers of heads with parchment. Wicker baskets are the best storage option. Fresh air easily enters them, thanks to which the bulbs are stored longer.
Winter varieties are best stored in a cellar or refrigerator. Such conditions will slightly extend the period of its suitability. Spring garlic is stored better, even in a warm room it will not lose its properties.
Conclusion
As we have seen, it is important not only to grow strong bulbs, but also to dig them in time. The timing of garlic ripening in the Moscow region may vary depending on the variety and weather conditions. It is very important to monitor the appearance of plants. It is he who will tell you that the time has come for the harvest. It is also very important to properly store dug heads. By following all the above rules, you can extend the shelf life of the heads until the next harvest.
