Growing Process

Step 1

Call in the tillers, gleaners and entertainers. Pigs help to clear the pasture from alfalfa, grass and weeds

Step 2

We use a BCS with a rotary plow to help remove the final grass and deep alfalfa roots remaining.  This is the first and last time soil is turned.

Step 3

The rotary plow is also used to make raised beds. A manual bed roller with dibbles mark the appropriate spacing and garlic cloves are planted

Step 4

Sprouting in early April is a joy to see and regular weeding and moisture management is needed

Step 5

Harvesting from approximately the end of July with a 2-3 week curing process follows with hanging bunches in a shaded, ventilated area

Step 6

Cleaning by cutting the stems and roots and taking a layer or two of wrapper off