How to Pull Leaves Off Garlic at the Time of Harvest

Loosen the soil on either side of the garlic row after most of the top growth has become dry and brittle -- but when there are still a few green leaves left. Use a trowel or handheld garden fork to loosen the soil.

Lift the garlic from the loosened soil. Hold the foliage near soil level with one hand, and use the fingers of your other hand to further loosen the soil so the garlic lifts easily.

Brush the excess dirt off the garlic bulbs. Gather the foliage of three or more bulbs together to form a bundle.

Tie a piece of twine around the gathered foliage to secure the bulbs together.

Hang the bulbs by the twine in a warm, dry area and allow them to cure, or dry, for four to six weeks, or until the skin is dry and papery.

Cut off the dead foliage from each bulb to within ½ inch of the top of the bulb, using a sharp knife. Trim off any roots dangling from the bottom of the bulb.

Peel off the soiled outermost papery covering on the bulb, but don't break apart the cloves until you're ready to use the garlic. Store the garlic in a mesh bag in a dry pantry.