Intentional living

Bring on the garlic

In May the only plants growing in my little garden were neat rows of garlic shoots. I planted the cloves in the fall before the earth froze. As the summer progressed the shoots were overshadowed by towering tomatoes and climbing vines on either side (the invasive beanstalks went so far as to wrap around the shoots like a pole). Underground however the bulbs steadily grew. 

Unlike other fickle vegetables in my garden (I’m talking to you zucchini!) this allium batted a thousand. 

I planted 9 cloves and harvested 9 shapely bulbs. I never thought I would describe the humble garlic as “plump and juicy” but this description fits this homegrown variety. The fat bulbs are delicately pungent and nicely protected by a papery skin so they can be dried and stored away for later use. How practical.

The bulbs were dug from the ground mid July but this was not the only harvest from this versatile plant. Early in June, I clipped 9 garlic scapes from the shoots. These bright green curly cues have a mild garlic flavour and are delicious lightly grilled or as pesto (I still have some pesto in the freezer for later).

Garlic is quite a fruitful crop. I have a feeling it will become a staple in my garden just as it’s a staple in my kitchen. 

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