It's my least favorite task. Cutting the roots and leaves to their proper lengths, then meticulously cleaning the bulbs with a brush, making sure to avoid removing too many bulb wrappers, all the while inspecting each for blemish, disease, and good form. I can do 30 to 50 an hour depending on the variety and size. Next year it will have to be different.
Compost and decayed wrapper cling to these Artichoke.
I finished cleaning and grading all the garlic and shallots after a couple of 12 hour days this past weekend. The racks will stay in the studio with 24-hour fans until we return from Minnesota. Be on the look out for my call to sale! I have a little over one thousand to market, some large, some small. I will bundle the different varieties, although I do not have enough that all bundles will have all varieties. The early bird will get the full compliment. All sales will help me grow bigger and better this coming fall on Long Island's east end.
