Articles

Shopping Tips

Published

5 months ago

February 28, 2025

We offer many varieties of garlic for sale with shipment late in the summer/early in autumn each year (order early…in June or July or early August…to ensure we don’t run out of your favorite kinds!). Order online for your convenience & get free shipping via our main site.

Harvest begins in July
We do allow some pre-orders each year, but will limit them to ensure we harvest enough of each variety. Even with conservative estimating, we can run short on garlic if weather causes a problem.
Shipping typically begins in August or September, after the garlic cures/dries.
Please unpack your garlic the same day it arrives so it can “breathe.”
If you experience any problems with the shopping cart please email me to order pdfarms@live.com

All garlic seed for sale includes free shipping & is grown on our small micro farm in Elgin Oregon – Greifs Gourmet Garlic!

Customers placing orders via the shopping cart should receive an e-mail at the time the order is shipped.
Upon receipt, please open your garlic immediately and store in a cool, dry place until planting.
Timing of shipping varies with harvest dates, drying times, and other factors.

Insurance or Signature Confirmation Deliveries are Possible, but Not Currently Included in the Shipping Fee.

If you want insurance to cover your package, contact us. This is not included in the shipping fee. We can easily bill you for the amount necessary to cover insurance.

“What Kind of Garlic Should I Buy?”

This is a common question we hear from our friends and customers. There are many varieties, and amazingly, they really do differ! Some are mild, some are very flavorful, some are hot and spicy. A few varieties seem to be our favorites for roasting, and a few are great minced/crushed and eaten raw and fresh on salads. Hardnecks, softnecks…it can be confusing!

New to our site this year is a “Garlic Variety Picker” page that we developed to help you choose which varieties are best for you. Click here to use the tool.

“How Much Garlic Should I Buy?”

Because we have access to fresh garlic and its superior flavor, we have increased our garlic use exponentially in recent years! We think this happens with our customers as well.

The real garlic flavor of fresh, home-grown garlic is so much better than what comes from store-bought powdered garlic or the old garlic purchased in stores’ produce sections and from bottles…fresh garlic flavor and aroma are addicting as well as healthy! We use garlic (roasted, minced fresh, minced frozen, minced dried, powdered from last year’s crop, etc.) almost every day. It goes in homemade bread, casseroles, dips, in almost all main dishes, and more.

A sound suggestion would be “don’t short yourself.”

For example, if you used 2 cloves per day on average, that would mean you need to raise over 700 cloves per year, or around 70-90 garlic bulbs. Depending upon the variety and the size, you should order 5 to 11 pounds of garlic to plant.
If you sell at Farmer’s Markets, be prepared. These large, fresh, flavorful bulbs from your garlic patch will sell better than hotcakes!

And don’t forget to grow a little extra to share with family and friends… 🙂

For Larger Planting Areas

Under construction 9/2/2010

(Length of Rows) x (2 to 4 seeds per foot) x (Number of Rows) / (# of Seeds Per Pound) = Pounds Needed
Note that the # of Seeds Per Pound will always be an estimate due to variances in bulb sizes, bulbs per pound, and seeds per bulb…and therefore, seeds per pound.

BREAKING DOWN THE NUMBERS

1. Number of Seeds per Row: Multiply the length of your row by 2, as you will probably plant one seed every 5 to 6 inches. However, some sources suggest 3 to 5 inches for spacing, so adjust this number as per your preferred spacing. If you space your garlic every 3 inches, you should use the number “4” in the equation, for example.

2. Number of Rows: Some people plant a single row, with a 2 or 3 foot gap between each row (to allow for mulch or tilling for weed control). Others plant two rows a few inches apart, and then a 2 or 3 foot gap. Still others will plant in more of a “bed” type situation, with 6 or 8 rows close together, and then a 2 or 3 foot gap between. Decide what will work best for your situation, and determine the number of rows you will have.

3. Total Number of Seeds Needed: Determine how many seeds you will need for the length or your rows, and multiply by the number of rows you will fit into your area. For example, a 100′ row would have 200 or more seeds if they were spaced 5 to 6″ apart. If you have 100′-long rows, and have 10 rows, then you would need 100 x 2 x 10 = 2000 seeds (length of row times seeds per foot times number of rows).

4. Calculate the Number of Pounds Needed: After calculating your seed needs in terms of numbers comes the tricky part, because the differing varieties have different numbers of cloves in each pound of seed. For example, some garlics have 4 seeds per bulb, while others have 20 or more seeds per bulb. Also, one variety might average 8 bulbs in a pound of large-sized garlic, while another might average 6 bulbs per pound, and another might require 12 bulbs to make a pound. Medium-sized garlic might have around 18 bulbs per pound. Once you decide on a variety, you can calculate seeds based upon those varieties’ average clove numbers per bulb and average bulbs per pound.

EXAMPLES

Using Music and Lorz as examples, and assuming a 6″ spacing:

Estimating Music:

Approximately 5 cloves per bulb, ~8 bulbs per pound equals 40 cloves per pound (cloves x bulbs per pound).
(your total number of cloves needed) divided by 40 equals how many pounds of Music you would need.
A 100′ row would require approximately 5 pounds of Music if planted 6″ apart.
Math: 100 x 2 seeds per foot = 200 seeds needed. 200 % 40 seeds per pound = 5 pounds of seed.

Estimating Lorz Italian:

~10 to 18 cloves per bulb, but using 10 to estimate (planting the larger cloves helps result in a larger-bulbed harvest), ~8 bulbs per pound equals 80 cloves per pound.
(your total number of cloves needed) divided by 80 equals how many pounds of Lorz Italian you would need.
A 100′ row would require approximately 2.5 pounds of Lorz if planted 6″ apart.
Math: 100 feet x 2 seeds per foot = 200 seeds needed. 200 % 80 seeds per pound = 2.5 pounds.

Planting a 4″ spacing (3 seeds per foot) within the row would result in different seed needs:

Estimating Music:

Approximately 5 cloves per bulb, ~8 bulbs per pound equals 40 cloves per pound (cloves x bulbs per pound).
(your total number of cloves needed) divided by 40 equals how many pounds of Music you would need.
A 100′ row would require approximately 7.5 pounds of Music if planted 4″ apart.
Math: 100 x 3 seeds per foot = 300 seeds needed. 300 % 40 seeds per pound = 7.5 pounds of seed.

Estimating Lorz Italian:

~10 to 18 cloves per bulb, but using 10 to estimate (planting the larger cloves helps result in a larger-bulbed harvest), ~8 bulbs per pound equals 80 cloves per pound.
(your total number of cloves needed) divided by 80 equals how many pounds of Lorz Italian you would need.
A 100′ row would require approximately 4 pounds of Lorz if planted 4″ apart.
Math: 100 feet x 3 seeds per foot = 300 seeds needed. 300 % 80 seeds per pound = 4 pounds.

Estimate of Seeds/Pound
Based upon an average from variety descriptions.

Which Size Should You Buy?

Garlic varieties can vary quite a bit in size. For example, Elephant Garlic bulbs can reach sizes between baseball and softball dimensions in your garden. See individual descriptions on our Garlic Varieties page for more about how the varieties differ in size.

For example, let’s look at one variety, such as German Red. Each year, German Red (and all varieties) has some huge bulbs, some medium bulbs, and a few small bulbs.

The largest of bulbs are obviously our “top grade,”
but the medium-sized bulbs are still awesome garlic!

A comparison of bulb size and weight, using German Red as an example.
On the left is one pound of German Red, average-sized bulbs.
On the right is one pound of German Red, large-sized bulbs.

The largest bulbs in each variety are recommended for planting if you want your garden’s harvest to consist of really large bulbs with large cloves. The larger bulbs are generally over 2″ in diameter, although some are 3″ (depending upon variety). An example of large-sized bulbs is the grouping on the right in the photo above.
Average-sized bulbs (generally up to 2″ in diameter) are economical for those wanting more cloves (because our garlic is sold by weight, and not by the number of the bulbs or cloves). If you want to plant in your garden with the harvest consisting of average-sized to large-sized bulbs, the smaller-sized bulbs may be better for you. An example of smaller (average-sized) bulbs is the grouping on the left in the photo above.
Small-sized bulbs are the ones we eat here at home, as well as the average sizes. We do not typically offer the small bulbs for sale.

Our varieties are generally available in two sizes each year (the shopping cart allows you to select a size): Large and Medium.

Articles

Banana Bark: The Overlooked Supermaterial with Surprising Uses

Published

2 weeks 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

3 weeks 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

2 months 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.