What are the traditional methods for storing and preserving garlic bulbs?

After garlic bulbs are harvested, they enter a dormant period and are extremely sensitive to the surrounding environment during storage (such as temperature and humidity); a slight lapse in care can easily lead to rot and spoilage. Several traditional preservation techniques are introduced below:

1. Mixed storage with bran. First spread a 2 cm thick layer of bran on the bottom of the storage container, then stack the dried garlic bulbs layer by layer by piling one layer of garlic bulbs (a height of 2 to 3 bulbs is appropriate) and covering it with a full layer of bran. When the pile reaches 4 to 5 cm from the mouth of the storage container, cover the garlic bulbs completely with bran. This method mainly uses the bran to maintain the accumulation of carbon dioxide and the relative decrease of oxygen content in the storage environment, thereby effectively inhibiting the respiration of the garlic bulbs and achieving the purpose of extending garlic storage.

2. Storage in a mat-enclosed bin. Choose a site with higher ground, dry soil and good drainage. Place sleepers on the ground, spread straw on top, then use straw mats (or willow or locust twigs) to weave a round bin about 100 cm in diameter and about 150 cm high. Each bin can store 800 to 900 kg of garlic bulbs. Put the dried garlic bulbs into the bin, pile the top into a conical shape and then cover with 2 to 3 layers of reed mats. Surround the bin with mats and tie them tightly with rope vertically and horizontally. The bin should be sealed tightly to prevent sun and rain. In the early storage period, turn the bin once every 2 to 3 days to promptly remove moisture inside the bin and discard rotten and diseased garlic bulbs. After winter begins, take cold-protection measures to prevent freezing damage. In the middle and late storage periods, turning the bin is generally not necessary, so as to ensure a well-sealed environment inside the bin and produce a certain spontaneous air-conditioning effect. As long as attention is paid to maintaining ventilation, coolness and low temperature, this method can achieve a relatively good storage and preservation effect.