In many parts of the country, hot and dry weather has caused onions and garlic to die down ready for harvest earlier than usual. But in cooler and wetter areas you may still need to help them along. The tops should have fallen over by now and to help them dry out and ripen, sever the roots by pushing a fork under the bulb and gently lift them. You can then leave them where they are for a few days, then pull them up. Lay them in trays somewhere dry and airy – a greenhouse is perfect for this. A shed may be suitable if you can leave the door open so there’s air flow to prevent rot. Clean off the old roots and soil before storage and use any that are damaged or have poor skins immediately.