How to Tell When Garlic Is Ready for Harvest

Harvesting garlic at the right time is critical for flavor, bulb size, and storage longevity. Too early, and bulbs are small and underdeveloped; too late, and cloves may split or rot. After decades of growing garlic in Sonoma Valley and California’s Central Valley, I’ve developed reliable ways to determine the perfect harvest time.

Table of Contents

Key Signs Garlic Is Ready

1. Leaf Color and Condition

Watch the lower leaves first—they should start turning yellow or brown while upper leaves remain green.
Generally, ½ to ¾ of the leaves yellowed indicates the bulbs are mature.

🌱 Gardener’s note: In my experience, leaf curling is also a helpful indicator that harvest time is near.

2. Bulb Size

Gently dig one or two test bulbs to check size.
Mature bulbs have well-formed cloves that feel firm and plump.

3. Clove Separation

Cloves should be distinct but still tightly wrapped in their papery skins.
If cloves start separating naturally, harvest immediately to prevent rot.

4. Timing

Softneck garlic: Usually harvested in late spring to early summer, depending on climate.
Hardneck garlic: Typically ready 1–2 weeks earlier than softneck, especially in cooler regions.

Harvesting Tips

Loosen Soil Carefully: Use a garden fork or trowel to lift bulbs without bruising.
Avoid Pulling: Pulling can damage cloves and reduce storage life.
Test Multiple Plants: Harvest a few bulbs to ensure most are ready; stagger if needed.

🌱 Tip: Stop watering 2–3 weeks before harvest to allow soil and bulbs to dry, reducing rot risk.

After Harvest: Curing

Lay garlic in a well-ventilated, dry area for 2–3 weeks.
Hang or lay in shallow crates, out of direct sunlight.
Trim roots and leaves after curing; store in cool, dry conditions for best shelf life.

🌱 Bottom line: Watch leaf yellowing, check bulb size, and test clove development. Proper timing ensures larger, flavorful bulbs that store well.

Garlic Harvest Readiness Chart

Indicator	What to Look For	Action / Tip
Leaf Color	Lower leaves turning yellow or brown; upper leaves mostly green	Time to check bulbs; ½–¾ yellowed indicates maturity
Leaf Curling	Leaves start to curl or bend downward	Signals harvest is approaching; test a few bulbs
Bulb Size	Bulbs feel firm and plump, cloves well-formed	Confirms readiness; adjust timing if underdeveloped
Clove Separation	Cloves distinct but still tightly wrapped in skin	Harvest immediately if cloves begin to separate naturally
Timing by Type	Softneck: late spring–early summer; Hardneck: 1–2 weeks earlier	Adjust based on climate and region
Soil Moisture	Dry soil, 2–3 weeks after last watering	Reduces rot risk; ensures proper curing
Test Bulbs	Dig 1–2 sample bulbs	Confirms overall crop readiness; stagger harvest if needed