Articles

How To Grow Garlic

Published

1 year ago

March 27, 2024

Hazel William

Adapted from the Iowa State University Horticulture

How to Grow Garlic Using Sustainable Farming Practices:

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a member of the onion family (Alliaceae) along with onions, chives, shallots, leeks, and elephant garlic. Garlic is distinguished from other family members by its flat leaves and clove-like bulbs. Each garlic bulb contains several small scales or cloves enclosed in a white or purplish parchment-like sheath.

Cultivars

Garlic cultivars are classified as either hardneck or softneck.

Hardneck cultivars (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon) produce a flower stalk (technically a scape) and are often termed “top-setting” or “bolting” cultivars. Flowers, if they are produced, usually abort. Bulbils (small bulblets) are produced on top of the scape. The flower stalks of some hardneck garlic are distinctly coiled. These types are referred to as rocambole or serpent garlic. Typically, hardneck garlic cultivars have 4 to 12 cloves surrounding the flower stalk. Because of the hard flower stalk, they are difficult to braid. Garlic Scapes are completely edible and considered a delicacy. Watch our recipes page for delicious ways to prepare garlic scapes.

Softneck cultivars (Allium sativum var. sativum) are sometimes referred to as “artichoke” cultivars and do not produce a seed stalk. These cultivars are commonly used in California for commercial production. However, some softneck cultivars are suitable for cold climates. Softneck cultivars are generally more productive than hardnecks because all the energy goes to producing a bulb rather than a bulb and flower stalk. Bulbs have 10 to 40 cloves arranged in layers. Softneck garlic tends to have a much longer shelf life than hardneck garlic and typically can be stored for 6 to 8 months without significant deterioration. They also are easy to braid.

Elephant, porcelain, or greathead garlic is actually a type of leek (Allium ampeloprasum). Elephant garlic is much larger than true garlic, often weighing as much as 1 pound per bulb. They also store well. The taste of elephant garlic is much milder than that of true garlic, but in cold climates it can develop a sharp or bitter taste.

Preparation of the Garlic Bulbs/Cloves

Open your garlic box the same day it is received! This will help prevent mold/mildew/rot, as it will allow the garlic to continue drying. Place the garlic in a cool location away from sunlight as you wait for the proper planting time.

Up to 2 days prior to planting (but not longer), “shuck” the garlic. Remove the outer husks and separate the cloves, leaving the skins on the individual cloves. Store the cloves in a cool location away from sunlight.

One helpful step to help avoid disease is to shuck your garlic away from your field/garden, so the dirt particles and shucks can not contaminate your soil. This may be an unnecessary precaution, but it’s an easy one to do. Therefore, we recommend shucking garlic away from your field/garden.

Dipping/soaking cloves: more to come here in the near future…

Planting

Planting Garlic: Garlic grows best in well-drained, fertile soils that are high in organic matter. Misshapen bulbs may result when garlic is grown in heavy, clay soils. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into heavy, clay soils can be beneficial. The optimum soil pH for garlic is between 6 and 7. Before planting, soils should be well tilled to provide a loose growing bed for bulb development. Because garlic plants do not produce true seeds, garlic is grown by planting cloves. Garlic cloves can be purchased at garden centers or from mail-order companies, though direct purchase online from growers is typically more economical.

Planting cloves from garlic purchased at the grocery store is not recommended because these are usually softneck cultivars that are mainly adapted to mild climates. Additionally, most grocery store garlic has been exposed to chemicals that postpone or prevent growth for longer shelf life.

Cloves should be planted in fall in most of the US (October to early November) or early spring (late March to early April). Spring-planted garlic will not likely achieve the same size as fall-planted garlic. Contact your local Extension Office or state Extension for information about planting times specific to your area.

Fall-planted garlic should be mulched with a 4- to 6-inch layer of weed-seed free straw to help prevent winter injury. In early spring, move the straw to between the rows to allow the garlic foliage to emerge and moisture to evaporate from the soil. The mulch helps control weeds during the growing season.

Late spring planting results in smaller bulbs at harvest.

Plant cloves with the pointed side up, root end down. When planted upside down, misshapen bulbs often develop. Plant cloves about 1 inch deep, or contact your Extension Office for recommended depth for your climate/zone.

Hardneck (top-setting) garlic cultivars also may also be grown from the bulbils or bulblets. Plant the bulblets in early spring and allow to grow in the same area for 18 months. By the end of the first season, the bulblets will form “rounds” or unsegmented bulbs. Left undisturbed, they will form a cluster of cloves by the following summer.

Spacing

Place cloves 3 to 5 inches apart within the row. Rows should be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.

Fertilizing

We suggest that you contact your local agricultural extension office for recommendations specific to your growing area. A list of offices, by county, can be found here: http://www.clemson.edu/extension/county/https://www.clemson.edu/extension/ .

Garlic requires more fertilizer than many vegetables. Incorporate 1 to 2 pounds of an all-purpose garden fertilizer (10-10-10) per 100 square feet before planting. One month after planting apply an additional pound per 100 foot of row in a band 3 to 4 inches from the base of the plants. Avoid nitrogen applications after the first week of May because bulbing may be delayed. Soil tests should be taken before planting to determine phosphorus and potassium needs.

If you prefer to garden naturally, try fertilizing with blood meal, bone meal, and/or fish meal.

Maintenance

Water plants once per week during dry weather. Stop irrigating in late June to allow the foliage to yellow and die before harvest. Like an onion, garlic has a shallow root system. Weeds should be removed carefully to avoid disturbing or pulling up the garlic bulbs with the weeds. Mulches help control weeds and conserve soil moisture.

Potential Problems

Most garlic diseases are either soil- or set-borne and usually can be controlled with proper rotation and planting disease-free sets. Before planting, check each clove for signs of disease. Discard any infected cloves or bruised cloves because they may decay in the soil. Many garlic cultivars are susceptible to yellow tips.

The development of yellow tips early in the season (before bulbing) may drastically reduce yields. It is usually a sign of water stress, nutrient deficiency, or disease. Insects are not a major problem for garlic production, though a few destructive pests do exist.

Harvest and Storage

When is it best to harvest garlic? In late spring/early summer, the garlic begins to change from a green onion-looking plant to forming bulbs. The greatest part of the size develops in the last month before harvest.

Spring garlic looks similar to green onions. It has not yet begun to form cloves in mid/late April in Iowa. Spring garlic can be eaten, but of course won’t allow you to produce as large of a quantity as if it matures before harvest. Still, it is another unique way to enjoy your garlic!

Carefully dig garlic bulbs when the foliage starts to turn yellow and die, most often when half of the leaves are dying. Yellowing normally occurs between June and September (varying by climate/zone). Dry or cure the bulbs in a warm, well-ventilated, and shaded location for at least 2 to 3 weeks.

After drying, remove the foliage 1 inch above the bulbs or use the foliage to braid the bulbs together. Place the bulbs in a mesh bag or open crate and store where it is cool (32–40°F) and dry (65–70% relative humidity). Softneck types can be stored for 6 months or more, whereas hardneck types may only store for approximately 3-5 months. More about how to store garlic here.

For more information

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!

Additional information also is available from these Web sites, and also your state’s Extension web site

All garlic seed for sale is supplied by our small micro farm in Elgin Oregon – Greifs Gourmet Garlic!

Articles

Banana Bark: The Overlooked Supermaterial with Surprising Uses

Published

2 days ago

July 16, 2025

Hazel William

Have you ever wondered what happens to banana trees after harvest? Most of us enjoy the fruit, but the bark—often discarded—holds untapped potential. From sustainable textiles to organic fertilizers, banana bark is a versatile, eco-friendly resource gaining attention worldwide.

In this article, we’ll explore:
✔ What banana bark is and why it matters
✔ Its traditional and modern applications
✔ Step-by-step ways to use it at home
✔ Expert insights on sustainability and innovation

Let’s peel back the layers (pun intended) and discover why banana bark deserves a second look.

What Is Banana Bark?

Banana bark comes from the pseudostem of the banana plant (Musa spp.), a fibrous, tree-like structure that supports the plant’s growth. Unlike hardwood trees, banana plants are herbaceous, meaning their stems are soft and composed of tightly packed leaf sheaths.

After harvesting bananas, farmers typically cut down the stem, which regrows from the root system. Instead of letting the bark go to waste, many cultures have found ingenious ways to repurpose it.

Traditional Uses of Banana Bark

For centuries, communities in tropical regions have utilized banana bark in practical and creative ways:

1. Natural Textiles & Handicrafts

In the Philippines, artisans weave banana bark into sinamay, a durable fabric used for hats, bags, and home décor.
In Nepal and India, the bark is dried and handcrafted into eco-friendly plates, bowls, and ropes.

2. Organic Mulch & Fertilizer

Banana bark decomposes quickly, enriching soil with potassium and nitrogen—key nutrients for plant growth.
Farmers in Costa Rica and Uganda use shredded bark as mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Biodegradable Packaging

Companies in Thailand and Sri Lanka press banana bark into sustainable food containers as an alternative to plastic.

Modern Innovations: Banana Bark in Today’s World

With sustainability at the forefront, researchers and entrepreneurs are finding new ways to harness bananabark:

1. Sustainable Fashion

Brands like Banana Fiber Clothing (Philippines) and Green Banana Paper (Micronesia) transform banana fibers into luxurious, biodegradable textiles rivaling linen and hemp.

2. Paper Production

Unlike wood pulp, bananabark requires less chemical processing, making it an eco-friendly paper source. Companies in India and Ecuador now produce banana bark notebooks, cards, and packaging.

3. Biofuel & Bioplastics

A 2022 study in BioResources found that banana bark’s high cellulose content makes it ideal for biofuel production.
Startups in Colombia are experimenting with bananabark-based biodegradable plastics for disposable cutlery.

How to Use Banana Bark at Home

Want to try DIY bananabark projects? Here’s how:

1. Homemade Banana Bark Paper

Materials:

Fresh bananabark strips
Blender
Screen mold (or old window screen)
Water
Wooden press (or heavy books)

Steps:

Soak bark strips in water for 24 hours to soften.
Blend into a pulp and spread evenly on the screen.
Press out excess water and let dry in the sun.
Peel off your handmade sheet—perfect for art or notes!

2. Garden Mulch

Chop dried bark into small pieces.
Spread around plants to retain moisture and deter pests.

3. Natural Cordage

Peel long fibers from the bark, twist tightly, and dry for a strong, biodegradable rope.

Why BananaBark Is a Sustainability Game-Changer

✔ Fast-Growing & Renewable

Banana plants regrow in 9–12 months, unlike slow-growing trees.

✔ Reduces Agricultural Waste

Over 1 billion tons of banana stems are discarded yearly—upcycling them cuts landfill waste.

✔ Carbon-Neutral Material

Processing bananabark emits far less CO₂ than synthetic materials.

Dr. Maria Fernandez, a bio-materials researcher, notes:

“Banana bark is one of the most underutilized resources in agro-industry. Its strength, flexibility, and biodegradability make it ideal for circular economies.”

Challenges & Future Potential

Despite its benefits, bananabark faces hurdles:

Lack of large-scale processing facilities in many regions.
Consumer awareness—most people don’t know it’s usable.

However, with rising demand for sustainable materials, bananabark could soon be mainstream.

Final Thoughts: The Future Is Peel-able

Next time you enjoy a banana, remember: its bark might one day be your notebook, shirt, or even your takeout box. By supporting bananabark products and DIY recycling, we can turn agricultural waste into eco-gold.

Your Move:
➔ Look for bananabark products online (Etsy, eco-stores).
➔ Try a small DIY project—mulch or handmade paper.
➔ Share this article to spread the word!

Articles

Truly Unruly: How to Tame Chaos and Take Control of Your Life

Published

6 days ago

July 12, 2025

Hazel William

Have you ever felt like your life is spiraling out of control? Like no matter how hard you try, chaos keeps creeping in—missed deadlines, cluttered spaces, unfinished projects? You’re not alone. In a world that glorifies “busy,” many of us struggle with truly unruly habits that sabotage productivity, peace, and progress.

But what if you could flip the script? What if, instead of drowning in disorder, you could harness it—or better yet, eliminate it? This guide dives into expert-backed strategies to help you declutter your mind, streamline your routines, and reclaim control.

Why We Struggle with Unruliness

Before fixing a problem, we must understand it. Unruliness—whether in habits, schedules, or environments—often stems from:

Decision fatigue – Too many choices lead to paralysis.
Lack of systems – Without structure, chaos thrives.
Perfectionism – The fear of failing prevents starting.
Digital overload – Constant notifications fracture focus.

A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that 72% of adults feel overwhelmed by disorganization, leading to stress and burnout. The good news? Small, intentional changes can make a massive difference.

1. Declutter Your Environment (The Outer Game)

The 5-Minute Rule

If a task takes less than five minutes, do it immediately. Hang up your coat, reply to that email, or wipe the counter. This prevents small tasks from snowballing into chaos.

The One-In, One-Out Rule

For every new item you bring into your space (clothes, gadgets, even apps), remove one. This keeps clutter from accumulating.

Real-World Example: Marie Kondo’s KonMari method isn’t just about tidying—it’s about keeping only what sparks joy, reducing decision fatigue.

2. Master Time Management (The Productivity Hack)

Time Blocking > To-Do Lists

Instead of vague to-dos, assign tasks to specific time slots. Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Elon Musk swear by this method to maximize efficiency.

The Two-Minute Rule (David Allen’s GTD)

If a task takes under two minutes, do it now. Quick actions prevent backlog.

Batch Similar Tasks

Group emails, calls, or errands together. Context-switching drains energy—batching preserves focus.

3. Tame Digital Chaos (The Silent Productivity Killer)

Turn Off Non-Essential Notifications

Researchers at UC Irvine found that it takes 23 minutes to refocus after a single interruption.

Use the “Do Not Disturb” Mode

Schedule focus blocks where only priority contacts can reach you.

Unsubscribe Ruthlessly

If an email newsletter doesn’t add value, ditch it. Tools like Unroll.Me can help.

4. Build Anti-Unruly Habits (The Long-Term Fix)

Start with Keystone Habits

Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habit, explains that keystone habits (like daily exercise or journaling) create ripple effects, improving other areas of life.

The 2-Day Rule

Never skip a habit twice in a row. Miss a workout? Do it the next day. This prevents total derailment.

Automate Decisions

Steve Jobs wore the same outfit daily to conserve mental energy. Simplify recurring choices (meal prep, morning routines) to reduce decision fatigue.

5. Embrace Imperfection (The Mindset Shift)

Done > Perfect

Jia Jiang, author of Rejection Proof, argues that perfectionism is procrastination in disguise. Ship the project, publish the post—refine later.

The 80/20 Rule

Focus on the 20% of efforts that yield 80% of results. Not everything needs 100% perfection.

Final Thoughts: From Unruly to Unstoppable

Truly unruly habits don’t disappear overnight—but with consistent tweaks, you can transform chaos into clarity. Start small: declutter one drawer, block 30 minutes for deep work, or silence your phone during meals.

As author James Clear puts it: “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” Build systems that work, and unruly becomes unstoppable.

Articles

The Importance of how to Early Arrive at Homat Idol Fest

Published

1 month ago

June 14, 2025

Hazel William

Homat Idol Fest is a highly anticipated event that draws fans of Japanese idol culture from far and wide. Attending such an event can be an exhilarating experience, but it’s crucial to arrive early to make the most of your time and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. In this article, we explore the reasons why arriving early at Homat Idol Fest is essential.

Beat the Crowds

One of the primary reasons to arrive early at Homat Idol Fest is to beat the crowds. As the event gains momentum throughout the day, the venue is likely to become increasingly crowded, making it difficult to move around freely and access various attractions. By arriving early, you can avoid long lines and crowded spaces, allowing you to enjoy the event to the fullest.

Secure a Good Spot

Arriving early at Homat Idol Fest gives you the opportunity to secure a good spot for performances, meet-and-greets, and other activities. Whether you’re hoping to be front and center during your favorite idol’s performance or eager to get a prime spot for photo opportunities, arriving early ensures that you have the best chance of securing a desirable position.

Participate in Pre-Event Activities

Many events at Homat Idol Fest offer pre-event activities and special promotions for early attendees. These may include exclusive merchandise releases, photo opportunities with idols, or even special performances or Q&A sessions. By arriving early, you can take advantage of these offerings and enhance your overall experience at the festival.

Maximize Your Time

Homat Idol Fest typically features a packed schedule of performances, panel discussions, workshops, and other activities. Arriving early allows you to maximize your time at the event and take full advantage of everything it has to offer. Instead of rushing from one activity to the next, you can leisurely explore the venue, attend multiple performances, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

Networking Opportunities

Attending Homat Idol Fest early provides ample opportunities for networking and connecting with fellow fans. Whether you’re striking up conversations while waiting in line or participating in pre-event meetups and gatherings, arriving early allows you to meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for idol culture. These connections can lead to lasting friendships and memorable experiences.

Avoid Transportation Delays

Arriving early at Homat Idol Fest helps you avoid potential transportation delays that could impact your arrival time. Public transportation services may experience heavy demand during peak hours, leading to longer wait times and crowded conditions. By planning your journey in advance and arriving early, you can minimize the risk of transportation-related issues and ensure a smooth arrival at the festival.

Conclusion

How to Early Arrive at Homat Idol Fest is essential for a variety of reasons, including beating the crowds, securing a good spot, participating in pre-event activities, maximizing your time, seizing networking opportunities, and avoiding transportation delays. By arriving early, you can enhance your overall experience at the festival and make the most of this exciting celebration of idol culture.

FAQs

How early should I arrive at Homat Idol Fest?
1. It’s recommended to arrive at least an hour before the start of the event to ensure ample time to navigate the venue and participate in pre-event activities.
Are there any benefits to arriving early besides avoiding crowds?
1. Yes, arriving early allows you to secure a good spot for performances, participate in pre-event activities, maximize your time, and network with fellow fans.
What should I do if I encounter transportation delays on the way to the festival?
1. If you encounter transportation delays, try to remain patient and consider alternative routes or modes of transportation if possible. Additionally, staying informed about any updates or announcements from event organizers can help you adjust your plans accordingly.
Are there designated areas for early arrivals to gather before the event begins?
1. Event organizers may designate specific areas for early arrivals to gather and participate in pre-event activities. Be sure to check the event schedule and venue map for details.