"… hot, laxative, and diuretic, but it is bad for the eyes." Hippocrates
Ahhh! So this is the reason why I wear glasses! This would have to be one of the "kings" of herbs and so easily grown in the Illawarra. Once you have grown your own you will object to paying for it in the shops. Word of caution, your own will have more of the essential oils and so is VERY strong.
Companion Planting:
Beneficial to roses, raspberries and stone fruit as it repels aphis and cabbage moth. Dislikes peas and beans (which don’t like any member of the onion family).
Growing:
Plant early spring or late autumn. Plant in well drained soil or in a pot, 1 to 2 inches (5cm) deep and 4 to 6 inches (15cm) apart.
Harvesting:
Dig up when the leaves start to die down and dry in a dark dry place. They are ready for use when the leaves break off easily and the outer skins “flake off”. Peel, place the whole or minced cloves in air-tight jars and top with olive oil. Keep in the fridge.
Note: When peeling the garlic make sure you have gloves on as the essential oils can burn your hands!
Culinary Use:
Use in casseroles, stews, insert slivers of cloves in roasts. Good for Italian, Greek, French and Aussie dishes. Also keeps vampires at bay.