What's the proper way to clean harvested garlic?

Cleaning garlic properly retains protective wrappers needed for long-term storage. I ruined my first harvest by washing the bulbs like vegetables. Moisture introduced during the cleaning process facilitated mold growth and spread during the curing process. Instead, only use dry methods. Gentle brushing maintains the integrity of the wrapper while avoiding pestering of the field soil.

Start cleaning bulbs as soon as possible after harvest in shaded areas. To avoid transferring skin oils, use cotton gloves. Begin by lightly tapping the bulbs together to loosen any clumps of soil. As a general guideline, remove only large masses of dirt that are sticking to the roots and bases. The tiny bits will dry and fall away on their own during the curing of the crop.

Concentrate on cleaning in the root zones and at the bulb bases where dirt settles. Rotate bulbs, supporting the stem as you clean. Brush in a downward direction along the wrappers. Never rub across the wrappers, as this can tear the wrappers. My rule is if dirt does not come off with three light strokes, then leave it.

Properly handle a variety of soil types. Allow sticky clay, for example, to dry completely before brushing clean. Sandy soils brush off easily. After cleaning, place the bulbs onto mesh trays so they are not piled on top of each other. Good airflow starts the curing process naturally.

Bulbs with damage require care. If any wrappers are ripped during the cleaning process, keep those bulbs set aside. They will not last long, so use them within a few weeks while they're still fresh. Be sure to record any cleaning issues for next year to improve your process. This level of care will lead to clean, mold-free garlic for curing.

Read the full article: When to Harvest Garlic and How to Do It Right