One of the most frequently asked questions when growing hardnecks is when to harvest the garlic scape. when cut garlic scapes timing is important, your plants will be able to allocate more of their energy to producing bigger, healthier bulbs. Garlic growers, whether new or veteran, will find that knowing when and how to pick garlic scapes can really make a difference in the garden.

We are Certified Organic heirloom garlic seed producers and culinary garlic producers and have shared simple, effective techniques for helping growers around the world get productive garlic crops at Mad River Garlic Growers.

So, what are Garlic Scapes?

The long green flower stalks that hardneck varieties of garlic produce in late spring or early summer are called garlic scapes. They grow in beautiful loops, then straighten and develop into a flower head as they mature.

Scapes can be eaten and are considered a highly desirable component for the kitchen, but they also vie for energy with the garlic bulb. Their timely removal contributes to the bigger, stronger bulb.

When to Cut Garlic Scapes

Garlic scapes are ready to cut when they have formed one full curl but are still bent. The plant has allocated sufficient energy into the scape and the removal of the scape will redirect future growth towards the bulb.

Look out for these symptoms:

• The scape has curled once around.
• Stalk is still green, tender and pliable.
• The apex of flower bud is closed.
• Stem breaks or tears easily.

Don’t let the scape grow tall and straight as the plant has used up more energy into producing flowers.

The importance of timing.The significance of timing.

When the garlic scapes are done, removing them can have a number of advantages:

• Promotes bigger garlic heads.
• Increases bulbs size and quality.
• Encourages plant to grow root system.
• Helps to harvest more easily later in the season.
• Provides delicious edible scapes for cooking.

A lot of growers will see better bulb size following regular scape removal at the right time.

How to Cut Garlic Scapes

It’s very simple to cut garlic scapes.

• Use clean, sharp garden scissors or pruning shears.
• Trim off the scape above the highest healthy leaf.
• Do not remove leaves, to preserve the plant’s ability to make food.
• Harvest in the cool morning when plants are well hydrated.

The scape can be gently broken off with hands, but if done with clean tools, there will be a neater cut without the need to stress the plant.

When should every garlic plant have its scape removed?

The answer is usually yes for those who are growing hardneck garlic for the bulbs in the garden.

If you wish to save a couple of scapes for a few plants, however, you can do that:

• Observe garlic maturity.
• Form bulbils (for propagation).
• Experience the one-of-a-kind ornamental style.

A few scapes will make little difference to the overall harvest.

What is the consequence of not cutting off Garlic Scapes?

If garlic scapes are left on the plant:

• More effort is put into flower stalks.
• Bulbs can be shorter.
• There may be some loss of harvest quality.
• Plant continues to invest above ground.

Most gardeners who are trying to get the garlic to grow as large as possible will remove the scapes while your garlic continues to grow.

Are the garlic scapes edible?

Absolutely! Garlic scapes are less pungent than mature cloves, but have a mild garlic taste. They’re incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many recipes.

Here are some popular uses for garlic scapes:

• Homemade pesto
• Stir-fries
• Soups
• Roasted vegetables
• Grilled side dishes
• Pickled scapes
• Pasta recipes
• Garlic butter

They are a popular fall treat due to their crispness and subtle taste.

Common pitfalls that should be avoided are listed below:

Follow these tips to get the maximum yield from your garlic crop:

Cutting Too Early

It’s better to remove scapes before they curl up, but the stalk isn’t fully developed, which may slightly decrease the plant’s efficiency.

Waiting Too Long

If the scape has straightened completely or started to flower, more resources have already been shifted into the scape.

Damaging the Leaves

Leaves create food for bulb growth. Do not remove leaves until scapes have been harvested.

Using Dirty Tools

Always clean cutting tools to reduce the chance of moving disease from plant to plant.

On Which Days of the Week will Will Garlic Be Ready to Harvest?

Once garlic scapes have been removed, bulbs will continue to grow for the next 3-5 weeks, depending on the variety and the climate.

Typical readiness times are when:

• Lower leaves become brown.
• Five to six leaves (on top) are still green.
• The bulbs have well formed envelopes.
• The cloves are firm when tapped on the bulb.

Harvesting to maximize storage life with neither too early nor too late.

The following are tips on growing better garlic.

To help plants grow healthier and produce larger bulbs:

• Sow premium organic garlic seed.
• Use a soil that is rich in organic material and well drained.
• Water regularly during growth stage.
• Mulch to control water in the soil.
• Remove weeds regularly.
• Harvest garlic scapes at the right time.
• Properly cure harvested bulbs before storage.

These simple practices can greatly improve your garlic harvest each season.

So, why Mad River Garlic Growers?

Here at Mad River Garlic Growers we want to help our gardeners grow some incredible garlic! We have Certified Organic heirloom seed garlic available for excellent flavour, good performance and consistent yields.

Whether you’re starting your first garlic bed or trying to grow more, our high-quality seed garlic provides you with the groundwork for healthy plants and bountiful harvests.

Final Thoughts

If you know when to harvest garlic scapes, it is one of the most simple ways to get a better garlic harvest. Take scapes off after they’ve finished one twist but before they straighten to promote bigger, better bulbs and, of course, one of the best treats for the season!

For those wanting the best in Certified Organic heirloom garlic and growing tips, Mad River Garlic Growers has the answers to help you make a successful garlic crop from planting to harvest.

Looking to grow larger, healthier garlic? Visit Mad River Garlic Growers to discover the best organic seeds garlic and begin your best garlic season yet!