This year for the first time I have a problem with my garlic (IOW). The
skins that normally holds the cloves into a head are virtually non
existent. The result is that the cloves are breaking off at the least
touch, as is the stem. This is going to make them a bit of a pain to
store, I intend to net them. Additionally the crop is not as good as
previous years. Any ideas please as to the cause and how I may avoid
this next year?
Thanks

"Broadback" wrote

This year for the first time I have a problem with my garlic (IOW). The
skins that normally holds the cloves into a head are virtually non
existent. The result is that the cloves are breaking off at the least
touch, as is the stem. This is going to make them a bit of a pain to
store, I intend to net them. Additionally the crop is not as good as
previous years. Any ideas please as to the cause and how I may avoid this
next year?

You left them in the ground too long.

--
Regards
Bob
In Runnymede, 17 miles West of London

Bob Hobden wrote:

"Broadback" wrote

This year for the first time I have a problem with my garlic (IOW). The
skins that normally holds the cloves into a head are virtually non
existent. The result is that the cloves are breaking off at the least
touch, as is the stem. This is going to make them a bit of a pain to
store, I intend to net them. Additionally the crop is not as good as
previous years. Any ideas please as to the cause and how I may avoid this
next year?


You left them in the ground too long.

Thanks Bob, slaps wrist, must not do that again!

"Broadback" wrote
You left them in the ground too long.

Thanks Bob, slaps wrist, must not do that again!

Easily done and not all come ready at the same time especially if you grow
different varieties, no doubt the cloves in the heads are also beginning to
separate.
Once the leaves have started to brown at the tips we always dig up one or so
to see if it's ready, it's not wasted as you can use it "green". After a
few years you kinda get a feel for it. :-)

--
Regards
Bob
In Runnymede, 17 miles West of London