February 4, 2011
PHOTO: Denish C/Flickr
Size: Bulb weight is 2 to 8 ounces, depending on variety.
Sunlight requirements: Full sun
Water requirements: About 1 inch per week
Soil requirements: Fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter; heavily mulch to prevent heaving.
When to plant: Plant bulbs in fall, around the first frost through November.
Where to plant: Garden
When to harvest: Summer, when bottom leaves have yellowed or tops turn brown. Dig up using a spading fork.
Produce storage: Dry in a dark, airy place. Store braided or topped in a near-freezing, high-humidity area for five to eight months.
