Well not exactly in your neck fo the woods, but pretty close. I'm near Erie, PA.

Like any garden item, some mature earlier/later than others. For me, it has usually been sometime in late June when I have noticeable leaf die back. Harvest has usally occured for me over the first 2 weeks or so of July. Again, sometimes a bit earlier, sometimes later.

Using the leaves as a guide is excellent. As far as when to cut off watering, I usually try to guess when I am a week away from lifting the bulbs, and stop then. I also keep an eye on the weather forecast to try and get them up before a rain.

My experience has shown a week early is better than a week late.

Thanks.

I am in Western, New York. I was told by some garlic farmers last summer at the garlic festival at Fox Run vineyard, and this seemed to work last summer, that you stop watering two weeks before pulling. Other than that I would agree with all that has been said in this particular posting series. I echo the manure suggestion, as it was given to me at the festival as well. I augmented the soil last fall when I planted. Check out my blog to see the results later this Summer.

Here is a link that might be useful: Everyday Urban Gardener

Cool, I'm going to wait for the ground to dry out and dig mine up this weekend, since I'm a couple of hundred miles south of you. I'm going to try to braid mine and hang them, like in an italian restaurant.

Thanks!