05/25/2026
Scapes are just starting to poke out here in Northeast WA. If you're in a warmer zone than our Zone 6, you probably have scapes that are ready to pick. Here are a few tips for harvesting and using your scapes:
Cutting the scape re-directs the plants reproductive energy from going into the scape (an undeveloped flower stalk)) towards the bulb. This results in larger bulbs.
Cutting too early may cause increased plant stress; most varieties should be harvested at about 1 full curl.
Snap or cut the scape about 1" above where it emerges from the plant. Try to cut scapes on a warm, dry day to encourage quick healing on the open plant wound. This reduces plant stress.
Plan to harvest several times, especially if you are growing several varieties.
Kept in a plastic bag, in the refrigerator, scapes easily store for a month or longer. Providing a garlic-y treat while you (im)patiently wait for your garlic harvest.
We like them grilled, sauteed, stir fried, or even air fried; but I always stock my freezer with LOTS of garlic scape pesto (paired with a variety of herbs). Prepare them however you like green beans or asparagus, and you'll be happy.
Garlic Growers: How do you like your scapes?
We do ship scapes nationwide once we start picking in mid-June. You can pre-order here (and also copy down my pesto recipe):
www.mountainvalleygarlic.com/product-page/garlic-scapes
