Garlic

History One of the oldest known crops, garlic is mentioned in Egyptian and Indian writings that are 5,000 years old. Chinese and Babylonian writings reference the bulb. Humans traveling and migrating have spread garlic worldwide, but wild garlic only grows in central Asia. Currently there are 2.5 million acres of garlic production worldwide. Source: USDA Garlic Farmers Christoper Ranch Four generations of the Christopher Family have been farming in the beautiful Santa Clara Valley. Garlic is the company’s staple, encouraging them to help found the world famous Gilroy Garlic Festival.  More… George Chiala Farms The Chiala Family has been farming in the Santa Clara Valley for three generations. More… Season, Ripeness and Storage State Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Arizona                         California                         In-Season   Season Garlic is harvested in California from May through December. Ripeness Look for a good-sized, full bulb with big cloves. Bulbs should be firm, heavy, dry and have a paper-like crackley skin. Avoid any with soft cloves, sprouts or any signs of rot or mildew. Storage Store in a cool dry place away from foods which may pick up the aroma.