Garlic

Garlic is an extremely winter-hardy plant that thrives in northern climates. It comes in three types: softneck, stiffneck and elephant, which range in color and flavor. Garlic has myriad uses in recipes and also is shown to have medicinal properties.

Size: Bulb weight is 2 to 8 ounces, depending on variety.

Sunlight requirements: Full sun

Water requirements: About 1 inch per week

Soil requirements: Fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter; heavily mulch to prevent heaving.

When to plant: Plant bulbs in fall, around the first frost through November.

Where to plant: Garden

When to harvest: Summer, when bottom leaves have yellowed or tops turn brown. Dig up using a spading fork.

Product storage: Dry in a dark, airy place. Store braided or topped in a near-freezing, high-humidity area for five to eight months.