Garlic Bloat Nematode update

Garlic Bloat Nematode - make sure to purchase seed that's been tested

Image: D. Mollov

The plant disease clinic has confirmed the presence of Garlic Bloat Nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) from three separate farms this year, one of which had it last year as well. This is not unexpected or different from a typical year, but it's a good reminder to only buy seed from vendors who have tested negative for the nematode. Garlic Bloat Nematode is spread predominantly through seed, and once present on your farm is exceedingly difficult to get rid of. If you purchased garlic seed from the Sustainable Farming Association's Garlic Festival, all seed at the festival was screened and confirmed to be nematode free. For more information on the nematode, continue reading here.

Are you still looking for garlic seed? 

Our friends at SFA maintain a list of growers who have seed available: https://www.sfa-mn.org/growers-who-have-garlic-available/

Upcoming workshop and educational materials 

For those just starting with garlic or wanting to refresh your memories, SFA hosting a garlic planting workshop in October:

Garlic Growing Class & Planting Demonstration
Little Chili Farm    7217 Hill Road, Two Harbors, MN 55616
Potluck at 6:00 p.m.
Click HERE to register. (Registration is free)


Not able to make it to Two Harbors? SFA and the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships recorded this webinar about growing garlic in Minnesota.