Nutritive Value of Garlic
Healthy garlic bulbs contain allicin, colourless, odourless and water-soluble amino acids. On crushing the garlic bulbs the enzyme allinase breaks down into allin to produce allicin of which the principal ingredient is odoriferous diallyl disulpide. Garlic contains about 0.1% volatile oil. The chief constituents of oil are diallyl disulfide (60% ), diallyl trisulfide ( 20% ), allyl propyl disulfide ( 6% ), a small quantity of diethyl disulfide and probably diallyle polysulfide. Diallyle disulfide possesses the true garlic odour. Garlic has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is the most ancient cultivated vegetable giving pungency of the genus Allium. Original abode of garlic is said to be Central Asia and Southern Europe especially Mediterranean region.
MEDICINAL VALUE
Garlic is one of the important bulb crops grown and used as a spice or a condiment throughout India. According to the Unani and Ayurvedic systems as practised in India, garlic is carminative and is a gastric stimulant and thus help in digestion and absorption of food. Allicin present in aquous extract of garlic reduces cholesterol concentration in human blood. The inhalation of garlic oil or garlic juice has generally been recommended by doctors in case of pulmonary tuberculosis, rheumatism, sterility, impotency, cough and red eyes. Garlic possesses insecticidal action. About 1% garlic extract gives protection against mosquitoes for 8 hours. Extract of garlic along with chilli and ginger has beneficial action against soil nematodes. Beneficial use of garlic extract has been found against many fungi.
Area and Production
The production and productivity of garlic in India is very low compared to many other countries. However in Jammu & Kashmir garlic is grown on large scale. In District Kulgam the area under garlic cultivation during 2021-22 was 124 hectares with a total production of 1364 MTs and the annual turnover is 5.46 crores. During 2022-23 an area of 184 hectares is expected to be covered under garlic cultivation in the district.
VARIETIES
Chinese garlic and garlic local varieties are grown in District Kulgam. Chinese garlic is early maturing variety whereas garlic local is late maturing variety.
AGRO TECHNIQUES
Garlic is frost hardy plant requiring cool and moist period during growth and relatively dry period during maturity of bulbs. Bulb formation takes place during longer days and at high temperature, exposure to low temperature subsequent to bulb formation, favours the process. The critical day length for bulbing is 12 hrs and temperature also affects bulb formation. Exposures of dormant cloves or young plants to temperature of around 20 0C or lower depending upon varieties for 1-2 months hasten subsequent bulbing.
SOIL
Garlic can be grown on a variety of soils but it thrives better on fertile, well-drained loam soils. The pH of soil between 6 and 7 is suitable for good crop. Highly alkaline and saline soils are not suitable for garlic cultivation.
PLANTING
In Kashmir valley the planting is done during October-November particularly in District Kulgam it is planted in the month of October. Cloves of 8-10 mm diameter give increased yield of better quality. Cloves are generally planted at the depth of 1 inch but due to severe winters conditions in the valley cloves should be planted 2-4 inches deep. Garlic is often planted in raised beds for ease of digging, good soil drainage, and reduction of soil compaction. In-beds, plant spacing is 6 inches whereas line spacing of 8 inches.
Seed Rate
About 500 kg cloves of 8-10 mm diameter are sufficient for planting one hectare. Care should be taken to select disease free and bigger cloves from outer side of bulbs.
MANURES AND FERTILIZERS
Garlic responds very well to organic manures. For a normal soil 50 tonnes of farmyard manure, 100 kg N, 50 kg P and 50 kg K/ha through chemical fertilizer has been recommended. Micronutrients also increase its yield potential.
IRRIGATION
In general, garlic needs irrigation at 8 days intervals during vegetative growth and 10-15 days during maturation. As the crop matures (when the tops first begin to break over or become dry), stop irrigation to allow field to dry out first. Continued irrigation as the crop matures causes the roots and bulb scales to rot. This discolour the bulbs and exposes outer cloves and decreases the market value of bulbs. Irrigation after long spell of drought results in splitting of bulbs. Excessive irrigation results in sprouting.
INTERCULTURE
First weeding is done one month after planting and second one month after first weeding. Hoeing the crop just before the formation of bulbs (about two-and-a-half months after sowing) helps in setting of bigger sized well filled bulbs. Pendimethalin @ 3.5 litres or Goal @ 0.25 kg/ha + 1 hand-weeding gives good control of broad leave weeds.
HARVESTING AND CURING
Garlic becomes ready for harvesting when its tops turn yellowish or brownish and show signs of drying up and bend over. Chinese garlic is early-maturing cultivar. Harvesting at the stage when tops have fallen over gives good quality bulbs. Bulbs are taken out along with tops and windrowed gathering several rows in each row for curing.
YIELD
The yields of bulbs vary from 100 to 110q/ha depending upon variety.
SEED PRODUCTION
Garlic is propagated by cloves. Well-grown compact bulbs of uniform shape and size are selected. The cloves having 8-10 cm size are used for planting. The planting method and other operations followed for production of seed are the same as for bulbs production.
The technological advancements used in garlic cultivation
Technological advancements have played a significant role in enhancing productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in garlic cultivation. Here are some key technological advancements used in modern garlic cultivation:
- Precision Agriculture: Precision agriculture technologies, such as GPS-guided tractors and drones, are used to optimize field operations. These technologies help in precise planting, fertilization, irrigation, and pest management, leading to efficient resource utilization and improved crop health.
- Automated Planting Equipment: Modern garlic cultivation often involves the use of automated planting equipment that can precisely space and plant garlic cloves at optimal depths and intervals. This helps in achieving uniform plant populations and maximizing yield potential.
- Irrigation Management Systems: Automated irrigation systems, including drip irrigation and moisture sensors, are used to deliver the right amount of water directly to the garlic plants based on real-time moisture levels. This technology helps conserve water, reduce wastage, and ensure optimal growing conditions.
- Climate Control in Greenhouses: For greenhouse-grown garlic, climate control systems are used to optimize temperature, humidity, and light levels. These systems ensure ideal growing conditions throughout the year, allowing for continuous production and higher yields.
- Biotechnology and Genetics: Advances in biotechnology and genetics have facilitated the development of garlic varieties with enhanced traits, such as disease resistance, improved yield, and better storage qualities. Biotechnological tools are also used for genetic modification and breeding programs to develop superior garlic cultivars.
- Remote Sensing and Imaging: Remote sensing technologies, including satellite imagery and drones equipped with multispectral cameras, are used for monitoring garlic crops from above. These technologies provide valuable insights into plant health, growth patterns, and stress detection, enabling timely interventions.
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM approaches incorporate digital tools, such as pest monitoring sensors and predictive models, to manage pest populations effectively. These technologies help in early detection of pests, targeted interventions, and reduced reliance on chemical pesticides.
- Data Analytics and Farm Management Software: Farm management software and data analytics platforms are utilized to monitor and analyze various aspects of garlic cultivation, including planting schedules, input usage, weather conditions, and yield forecasts. These tools enable farmers to make data-driven decisions for optimizing production and resource allocation.
- Post-Harvest Technology: Modern post-harvest technologies, such as automated sorting machines, cold storage facilities, and packaging equipment, help maintain the quality and shelf life of harvested garlic. These technologies ensure that garlic reaches consumers in optimal condition.
By leveraging these technological advancements, garlic growers can streamline operations, improve productivity, and enhance the overall sustainability of garlic cultivation. The integration of technology with traditional agricultural practices can lead to more efficient and resilient garlic production systems.
Garlic Storage
Garlic is a versatile ingredient that is widely used in cooking for its unique flavor and potential health benefits. When it comes to storing garlic, it’s essential to do so properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some tips for storing garlic:
- Ventilated Container:Store fresh, unpeeled garlic bulbs in a well-ventilated container. A mesh bag or a wire basket works well for this purpose. Avoid storing garlic in sealed plastic bags or containers, as this can cause moisture buildup and lead to mold growth.
- Cool, Dark, and Dry Place:Keep garlic in a cool, dark, and dry place. Ideal storage locations include a pantry, cupboard, or a garlic keeper. Avoid storing garlic near sources of heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the garlic to sprout or deteriorate more quickly.
- Avoid Refrigeration:While it’s common to see garlic stored in the refrigerator, this is not the best practice. Refrigeration can cause garlic to become rubbery and lose its flavor. Instead, store garlic at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
- Avoid Moisture:Moisture can cause garlic to spoil quickly. Ensure the storage container is dry and well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. If you notice any sprouting or mold on the garlic, remove those cloves immediately to prevent the issue from spreading.
- Use within a Reasonable Timeframe:While garlic can last for several weeks to a few months when stored properly, it’s best to use it within a reasonable timeframe for the best flavor and quality. Try to use up your garlic supply within a few months for optimal freshness.
Garlic usage
In terms of practices related to using garlic, here are some tips:
- Peeling Garlic:To peel garlic easily, you can crush the clove slightly with the flat side of a knife or the heel of your hand, which helps loosen the skin. You can also try using a garlic peeler tube for a quick and efficient peeling process.
- Chopping Garlic:To release the maximum flavor of garlic, finely chop or crush the cloves before adding them to your dish. You can also use a garlic press for quick and easy mincing.
- Cooking Garlic:Garlic can burn easily, so it’s essential to cook it over low to medium heat to prevent it from turning bitter. Add garlic to the pan once it’s heated, and keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly.
- Flavor Enhancement:Garlic pairs well with various herbs and spices to enhance the overall flavor of your dish. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your taste preferences.
By following these storage and usage tips, you can make the most of this flavourful ingredient in your cooking.
