Garlic scapes are the flowering stalks that emerge from hardneck garlic varieties. This vibrant green shoot is the plant’s attempt at reproduction, which draws substantial energy away from the underground bulb. For growers aiming to maximize the size and quality of their harvest, timely removal of the scape is necessary. Cutting the scape redirects the plant’s resources back toward bulb development.
Understanding Scapes and Their Purpose
The primary function of the scape is to produce an aerial flower and subsequent seeds, known as bulbils. This reproductive effort requires a significant allocation of the plant’s stored energy reserves, which are otherwise destined for the subterranean bulb. Once the scape develops, the plant shifts its focus from vegetative growth to this reproductive structure.
If the scape is left intact, the developing bulbils consume resources needed for the expansion of the cloves and the overall size of the garlic head. Removing the scape interrupts this diversion of energy, forcing the plant to channel nutrients back down to the developing bulb. This resource redirection leads directly to a measurably larger final bulb yield.
Visual Cues for Perfect Timing
Identifying the optimal moment for scape removal relies on observing the stalk’s distinct growth pattern, which typically occurs four to six weeks before the anticipated bulb harvest. The scape initially emerges straight from the center of the leaves, then rapidly develops a characteristic coil or loop. This curling phase indicates the scape is ready to be monitored closely.
The ideal time to cut is once the scape has formed a complete loop, or about one to one-and-a-half full spirals, and is just beginning to straighten upward. Waiting for this slight unwinding ensures the plant has completed its initial surge of energy to the scape, but the stalk remains young and tender. Delaying the cut until the scape is fully erect and straight is detrimental, as the plant will have already committed significant energy to the aerial structure, resulting in a smaller bulb. The stalk also becomes tough and fibrous once it fully straightens, diminishing its culinary quality.
How to Cut and Use Garlic Scapes
The physical act of removing the scape should be executed with precision to prevent damage to the remaining foliage and stem. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to make a single cut just above the highest leaf node where the scape emerges from the stalk. Avoid cutting the leaves, as the remaining healthy foliage is necessary for photosynthesis to power the final stage of bulb growth.
Some growers snap the scape off by hand, which is effective, but cutting with a tool minimizes the risk of tearing the stem. The harvested scapes are a prized seasonal delicacy, known for a flavor that is distinctly garlicky but milder and sweeter than the mature bulb. They possess a fresh, grassy note and a crisp texture that can be used in numerous ways. Scapes are excellent when processed into pesto, or they can be chopped and added to stir-fries, omelets, and soups. Grilling or roasting scapes whole softens their texture and enhances their subtle sweetness.