Cultivating the aromatic garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum) has long been used as a culinary spice and medicinal herb. It is believed to have originated in Central Asia for over 5,000 years ago. Its fine aroma and distinct taste make garlic an export winner crop. There are about 300 varieties of garlic all over the world. Garlic is classified based on its origin and morphological features. Several types of garlic include: true garlic (predominantly from China), hard neck varieties (Asiatic type) and soft neck varieties. In the Philippines the varieties of garlic being planted fall under the soft neck varieties that are often cultivated in the provinces of Ilocos , Batanes, Mindoro and Batangas. Aside from its versatility as a culinary bulb, garlic production and economic opportunities for the Filipino farmers.