We primarily grow German Extra Hardy (also known as German White) which is a variety of hardneck garlic known for great flavor and easy-to-peel cloves. Garlic spends a long time in the ground: we plant it in early November, harvest the garlic scapes in June, and pull the garlic bulbs in July. After it has been cured, garlic will last a long time if stored in a cool, dry, dark place.
Garlic scapes are a delightful bonus of growing hardneck garlic. In early summer, the plants produce a curly shoot that has a wonderful garlicky flavor and can be used the same way you use scallions. We also like to make garlic scape pesto with them. These are typically only available for a week or two out of the year.