Garlic has been successfully cultivated, yet it's expected to spoil within a month's time.
If you're an apartment dweller without a basement or cellar, don't let that stop you from enjoying fresh garlic for months on end. By following a few key practices, you can effectively store garlic in your apartment.
First and foremost, it's important to start with freshly harvested garlic. After harvesting, the garlic should be dried – first on the ground, then in the shade or in a well-ventilated room. This process is crucial for preventing moisture and promoting a long shelf life.
Once dried, the type of garlic (winter or summer) should be understood to choose the right place and storage method. Hardneck "winter" garlic typically lasts longer than softneck "summer" garlic, so selecting winter garlic is preferable if you want extended storage.
The key to storing garlic is to protect it from moisture and direct sunlight. In an apartment, garlic can be stored in various containers such as jars, boxes, containers, burlap bags, or paper bags. However, it's best to avoid sealed containers or plastic bags that trap humidity, as they can lead to condensation and promote mold growth. Instead, opt for breathable containers like paper bags, mesh bags, or hanging bunches.
The ideal storage spot in an apartment is a pantry or cupboard that is cool, dry, and away from sunlight. This environment slows sprouting and spoilage and extends garlic’s shelf life for months. If you don't have a pantry, placing garlic in a well-ventilated container inside the cupboard or even using a hanging rack in a cool part of the apartment works well.
In addition to choosing the right container and storage location, it's important to monitor the garlic periodically for any signs of moisture or spoilage. If any damp cloves are found during the check, they should be removed immediately to prevent them from affecting the rest of the garlic.
Summer garlic does well at room temperature, away from heat sources and high humidity. It can be stored in a paper bag or breathable container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, such as a pantry or kitchen cupboard.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively store garlic in your apartment without a basement or cellar. Harvest garlic at its freshest, cure it properly, choose the appropriate type, store it in a breathable container in a cool, dark, dry, and well-ventilated location, and monitor it regularly for moisture and spoilage. With these practices, you'll be able to enjoy fresh garlic for months to come.
[1] Garlic Storage Tips [2] How to Store Garlic [3] Storing Garlic in an Apartment [5] Garlic Storage Guide
[1] "Enhance your lifestyle by properly storing garlic at home, even without a basement or cellar. Store it in a breathable container, such as a paper bag or mesh bag, in a cool, dark, dry, and well-ventilated location like a pantry or kitchen cupboard."
[2] "Discover a new aspect of home-and-garden care by learning how to store your harvested garlic for months on end. By following the right practices, you can enjoy fresh garlic in your apartment-gardening endeavors for an extended period."
