How To Cure Garlic To Keep It Fresh For Months

Everyone knows that garlic not only enhances the taste of food but also has numerous health benefits. If you don’t want to use it from your garden right away, it’s important to store it properly so that it stays fresh and fragrant for months. Cure garlic after cutting is the most effective way to extend its shelf life. In this process, the garlic is kept in a ventilated and dry environment to dehumidify it and protect it from rotting.

Whether you grow hardneck or softneck garlic, with a little care you can use your crop all winter long.

When and How to Harvest Garlic for Best Results

Garlic is ready to harvest when half the leaves turn yellow or brown.
Stop watering 2–3 weeks before harvest to allow the soil to dry.
Use a garden fork or shovel instead of pulling by hand to prevent bulb damage.
Never wash garlic after harvest—excess water leads to rot.
Only keep blemish-free bulbs for storage; use damaged ones immediately.

How to Cure Hardneck Garlic Bulbs

Hardneck garlic has stiff central stalks, making it harder to braid but excellent for long-term storage if cured correctly.

Step 1: Clean the Bulbs

Gently brush off soil with your fingers or a soft brush.
Keep roots, leaves, and papery skins attached.

Step 2: Drying Process

Place garlic on drying racks or mesh screens in a warm (70–80°F), dry, dark area.
Ensure good airflow—using a small fan helps.
Cure for 3–4 weeks until skins are papery and roots are crisp.

Step 3: Final Prep

Trim roots to about 1 inch.
Cut stalks to 1–2 inches above the bulb.
Store bulbs in mesh bags, wooden crates, or breathable baskets in a dark, cool spot.

How to Cure Softneck Garlic Bulbs

Softneck garlic is perfect for braiding, and it tends to store longer than hardneck.

Step 1: Cleaning

Don’t wash. Just brush off soil.
Keep skins, roots, and leaves intact.

Step 2: Hang Drying

Tie 8–10 garlic plants together with twine near the bulbs.
Hang bundles upside down in a dry, airy, shaded place.
Cure for 2–4 weeks.

Step 3: Storage or Braiding

Clip roots once cured.
Either cut stalks for storing in bags or braid the stems for beautiful, space-saving storage.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Curing

Avoid sunlight: Direct exposure can scorch bulbs.
Watch humidity: Keep humidity around 50–60% to prevent mold.
Don’t overcrowd: Bulbs need airflow; never pile them.
Check regularly: Discard any moldy or soft bulbs immediately.
Use a fan if your curing area has poor ventilation.

How to Store Cured Garlic

Ideal storage temperature: 32–50°F.
Best storage spots: root cellar, pantry, basement, or dark cupboard.
Keep garlic in mesh bags, paper bags, or woven baskets (never plastic bags).
Avoid refrigeration for long storage—it encourages sprouting.
For extended storage, consider freezing, drying, or pickling garlic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Washing garlic before curing
❌ Storing in plastic or airtight containers
❌ Keeping in humid or sunny areas
❌ Using bulbs with cuts, bruises, or rot
❌ Overcrowding garlic while drying

Must Read: Guide to Growing Potatoes

Must Read: The Ultimate Guide to Growing Garlic at Home

Conclusion

Properly curing garlic after cutting is one way you can save your garden’s hard work from going to waste. With a little attention and patience, your garlic can stay fresh, fragrant, and flavorful for months. Whether you use it in everyday meals or store it for the winter, properly stored garlic is not only the fruit of your labor, but also a must-have in your kitchen.

FAQs

How long does cured garlic last?

Properly cured garlic lasts 6–12 months, depending on variety and storage conditions.

Can I store garlic in the fridge?

Not recommended. Cold temps in fridges cause garlic to sprout early.

What if my garlic starts sprouting?

Use sprouted garlic immediately in cooking, or plant it back in the soil.

Can I cure garlic indoors?

Yes, as long as it’s a well-ventilated, dry area. A garage, shed, or spare room with airflow works well.

What’s the difference between hardneck and softneck garlic for storage?

Hardneck: Strong flavor, shorter storage (4–6 months).
Softneck: Milder taste, longer storage (8–12 months), easy to braid.