Garlic scapes are the long flower bud of the hardneck garlic plant. They are long, green, and curly. When garlic scapes are removed, the garlic plant will use all of its energy to increase the garlic bulb size, instead of putting energy toward developing flowers and seeds. Once the scapes are ready, we will harvest our garlic 3-4 weeks later.
In early July, when the scapes grow long and begin to curl, we walk the garlic patch and snap the scape off each plant. Unlike dried garlic, garlic scapes should be stored in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for a few weeks if kept in a plastic bag or a glass jar.
Garlic scapes are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. You can eat garlic scapes raw, sautéd, pickled, or grilled. At the farm, we enjoy making garlic scape pesto and adding scapes to stir fry’s, eggs, and sauces. Try substituting garlic scapes for scallions, chives, or garlic the next time you are in the kitchen.