When to Harvest Garlic
Harvest garlic when the lower one-third to one-half of the leaves have turned brown while several upper leaves remain green. In most US gardens, this falls from late spring into midsummer, depending on planting date, variety, and local weather.
Check plants weekly as bulbs approach maturity. The green leaves are the wrappers that will protect the cured bulb, so harvesting after every leaf has browned can leave fewer intact wrappers and shorten storage life.
Hardneck garlic commonly matures earlier than softneck garlic. Remove hardneck scapes when they curl, if desired, then use the remaining leaf condition rather than a calendar date as the primary harvest signal.
Loosen soil well outside the bulb with a garden fork or digging fork, then lift each plant gently. Do not pull plants by their stalks, because the stalk can detach and the bulb may be bruised or left in the soil.
Brush off loose soil but do not wash the bulbs. Leave roots, stalks, and wrappers in place while curing, and set aside any cut, split, or damaged bulbs for prompt kitchen use rather than long storage.
Cure garlic in a dry, shaded location with steady airflow for about two to four weeks. Hang plants in small bundles or spread them in a single layer on a screen, keeping bulbs out of direct sun and rain.
When necks and roots are fully dry, trim roots and cut or braid stalks as appropriate for the type. Store sound bulbs in mesh, open baskets, or another ventilated container in a cool, dry, dark place, and save the largest healthy bulbs for planting stock.
Frequently asked questions
Can I harvest garlic after all the leaves turn brown?
You can, but the bulb may have fewer protective wrappers and may not store as well. Lift a few test bulbs when the lower leaves are brown and upper leaves are still green.
Should garlic be washed after harvest?
No. Dry soil can be brushed away, but washing adds moisture and can interfere with curing.
Why are my garlic bulbs splitting in the ground?
Split bulbs are often overmature or exposed to uneven moisture near harvest. Harvest promptly when leaf signals are right and maintain reasonably even soil moisture during bulbing.
General guidance for US home gardens. Conditions vary by region and season; check with your local Cooperative Extension office for site-specific advice. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.