What are Garlic Seeds?
Contrary to popular belief, garlic does not produce true seeds like other plants do. The tiny bulbils found at the top of garlic plants are often mistaken for seeds but they are actually aerial bulblets. These bulbils develop in the flower head of hardneck garlic varieties and can be used as a means of propagation.
How are Garlic Seeds Harvested?
Garlic seeds, or bulbils, are typically harvested when the garlic plant matures and the flower head begins to dry out. The bulbils are carefully separated from the flower head and stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted or used in other ways.
What Can You Do with Garlic Seeds?
While garlic seeds cannot be used in the same way as traditional seeds, they still have a range of uses:
- Propagating Garlic: One of the primary purposes of garlic seeds is to act as a means of propagation. By planting the bulbils, you can grow new garlic plants and continue to enjoy fresh garlic in your garden.
- Culinary Uses: While less common, garlic bulbils can be used as a substitute for cloves in culinary dishes. However, it’s worth noting that the flavor can be milder and less intense than that of cloves.
- Scaping: Garlic bulbils can also be used to produce garlic scapes. These curly green shoots are harvested in early summer and can be used in various recipes, adding a unique garlic flavor to your dishes.
- Ornamental Use: Some gardeners use garlic bulbils for decorative purposes due to their interesting shapes and colors. They can be added to flower arrangements or used in crafts.
Garlic seeds, or bulbils, are not true seeds but are aerial bulblets that develop in the flower head of garlic plants. They can be used for propagation, culinary purposes, scaping, or even as ornamental additions. Now that you know more about garlic seeds, you can explore their various uses and continue to enjoy the versatility of this amazing plant.
For more gardening tips and information, be sure to check out our other blog posts.