Learn when and how to harvest garlic scapes for bigger bulbs and better flavor—plus simple tips for storing and using this early summer garden treat.
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Living slow and seasonal means paying attention—knowing when to cut, when to cure, and when to let things be. Garlic scapes are no exception.
They show up with a curl and a twist, looking a little wild, a little magical. But they’re more than pretty—cut them at the right time, and your garlic bulbs grow fatter and happier.
In this quick guide, I’ll show you when to cut scapes, how to store them, and what to do with the extras.
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the curly, flowering stems that grow from the center of hardneck garlic varieties.
They sprout a few weeks before harvest, stretch tall, and then spiral like a pig’s tail. If left alone, they’ll flower and try to go to seed, which might look interesting, but it comes at the cost of smaller garlic bulbs.
So we cut them. Not just because it helps the plant—but because they’re also edible and actually delicious.
When to Harvest Garlic Scapes
Scapes don’t really come with a calendar. You’ve got to watch them.
Here’s what to look for:
- Time of year: Late spring to early summer
- Stage: When the scape makes 1–2 full curls
- Too late: If it straightens and starts to form a bud—still edible, but tougher
Zone Tip: In cooler zones (like Michigan), scapes typically appear in mid-to-late June. Warmer zones might see them earlier.
How to Harvest Garlic Scapes
You don’t need fancy gear. Just sharp shears and a steady hand.
What you’ll need:
- Clean garden scissors or pruners
- A basket or bowl (or the hem of your shirt—we’ve all been there)
Steps:
- Find the scape: It’ll be the tallest, curling stem rising from the center of the plant.
- Cut low: Snip it near the topmost leaf—right where it emerges.
- Leave the leaves alone: They’re still feeding the bulb underground.
Pro tip: Morning harvests are best. Plants are crisp, hydrated, and easier to work with.
Why You Should Harvest Garlic Scapes
Cutting scapes isn’t just for flavor—it’s garlic strategy.
When you remove the scape, the plant redirects its energy downward, plumping up the bulb instead of fussing with flowers.
Benefits of harvesting scapes:
- Bigger, better garlic bulbs
- Tender, edible scapes for cooking or preserving
- A cleaner, tidier garlic patch
How to Store Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes hold up surprisingly well—and they’re worth saving.
Short-Term:
- Store in a breathable produce bag or wrap in a damp towel in the fridge
- Or stand upright in a jar with a bit of water, like cut herbs
- Keeps fresh for 2–3 weeks
Long-Term:
- Chop and freeze in a zip-top bag for quick stir-fry or soup use
- Puree with a bit of water and freeze in ice cube trays for easy portions
- Make garlic scape pesto or infused vinegar, then freeze in small jars or silicone molds
- Freeze dry and store in airtight containers for long shelf life and fast flavor boosts
Garlic Scape Recipe Ideas
Scapes are mild, fragrant, and endlessly useful. A few homestead favorites:
- Whip up a garlic scape pesto—freeze it for winter meals
- Slice into scrambled eggs, fried rice, or soup
- Grill whole, like you would asparagus
- Pickle with herbs and vinegar for a crunchy treat—they’d be a great addition to a jar of refrigerator pickled eggs
FAQ: Garlic Scapes
What happens if I don’t cut garlic scapes?
They’ll flower and go to seed, pulling energy from the bulb. You’ll still get garlic, but smaller heads.
Can I cut garlic scapes too early?
If you snip before they curl, they’re still edible, but you might not get the full flavor or yield.
Can I eat garlic scapes raw?
Yes—especially young ones. Slice into salads or blend into dips. The flavor is garlicky but gentler than the bulb.
How long do garlic scapes last in the fridge?
Up to 2–3 weeks if kept cool and slightly humid—think produce bag or jar of water.
Do softneck garlic varieties produce scapes?
Nope. Only hardneck garlic gives you that curly bonus.
Whether you’re growing garlic for the first time or you’ve got rows of it lining your garden, harvesting the scapes is a simple way to boost your yield and add fresh flavor to your kitchen.
Let me know how you’re using yours this season—I love hearing what’s growing in other gardens.
