Growing garlic in water is a simple and sustainable way to have a constant supply of fresh garlic greens. This method is perfect for those with limited space or who want a quick and easy way to enjoy the benefits of homegrown garlic. Here’s how you can grow garlic in water and keep it going indefinitely.
1. Selecting the Garlic
Start by choosing healthy, organic garlic bulbs. Avoid any that are soft or show signs of mold. For best results, use garlic cloves that are large and firm, as they will sprout more robustly.
2. Preparing the Garlic Cloves
Break apart the garlic bulb to separate the individual cloves, keeping the papery skin intact. Select a few of the largest cloves for planting.
3. Setting Up the Water Container
- Choose a Container: Select a small glass or jar that will hold the garlic cloves upright. The container should be narrow enough to support the garlic clove without it sinking too deep.
- Add Water: Fill the container with enough water to cover the bottom of the garlic cloves, about a quarter-inch deep. Ensure the water level only covers the base of the cloves, leaving the top part exposed to air.
4. Placing the Garlic Cloves in Water
Place the garlic cloves into the container with the pointed end facing up and the flat end (where the roots will grow) submerged in the water. Ensure the cloves remain upright and are not fully submerged to prevent rotting.
5. Providing Light and Warmth
Place the container in a spot with plenty of indirect sunlight, like a windowsill. Garlic needs warmth and light to sprout, so ensure it’s in a bright area but not in direct, scorching sunlight.
6. Maintaining the Water Level
Change the water every few days to prevent it from becoming stagnant and to keep the cloves healthy. Always maintain the water level so that the base of the garlic cloves stays submerged.
7. Harvesting Garlic Greens
In about a week, you should see green shoots emerging from the top of the garlic cloves. These garlic greens can be snipped and used just like chives or green onions to add a mild garlic flavor to dishes. Regularly trim the greens, and they will continue to regrow, providing you with an ongoing supply.
8. Keeping the Supply Going
To maintain an inexhaustible supply of garlic greens, you can rotate cloves. Once a clove stops producing strong greens or if it begins to decay, replace it with a fresh clove. By consistently adding new cloves to your water container, you can ensure a continuous harvest.
Conclusion
Growing garlic in water is an easy and efficient way to enjoy fresh garlic greens year-round. With minimal effort and no need for soil, you can have a renewable source of garlic to enhance your cooking. Just follow these steps, and you’ll never run out of this versatile herb again!