Garlic trick that everyone ignores will make it last for six months

You're storing your garlic all wrong - and the correct method could make it last up to six months.

Garlic is a staple in many British kitchens, adding flavour to countless dishes and offering numerous health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, one bulb of garlic can be a lot to use if you're only adding a few cloves to a meal, often leading to wastage.

But there's a better way to store garlic that could extend its life to half a year. Experts generally agree that the ideal place to store garlic is somewhere cool, dry, and well-ventilated, as this special ingredient thrives when kept away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Chef Richard Temples suggests that proper storage can significantly extend the lifespan of your garlic.

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While it's common knowledge that garlic should be stored in a cool, dark cupboard, did you know you shouldn't separate the bulb into individual cloves until you're ready to use each one? According to Richard, keeping the bulb whole is a simple and cost-free trick to prolong the life of your garlic - and it requires no effort at all.

Speaking with Martha Stewart's food blog, he revealed a little-known secret: "Most people don't know that garlic will last four to six months if kept cool and dry! The bulbs are their own storage container so don't break them apart until you need to. Once the cloves are pulled apart, they tend to dry out much quicker."

The ultimate spot recommended for stashing your garlic is tucked away in the pantry or nestled into a kitchen cabinet. For those looking to keep their bulbs fresh, consider placing them in something breathable like a mesh bag or a comfy woven basket ensuring good air flow that keeps moisture at bay and freshness in play.

And if you're keen on absorbing any rogue dampness, wrap your garlic in paper towels or stash it snugly in a paper bag these tricks can stave off sprouting as well. While refrigeration of garlic isn't a complete no-no, especially when you're strapped for space, make sure to park your bulbs in a ventilated vessel or a perforated plastic bag to ward off unwanted wetness.

But keep in mind, the chilly environs of your fridge are not ideal for these pungent pieces; it dulls their robust taste over time and might leave other foods in your fridge subtly tasting of garlic romance gone wrong.