What is the crucial first defense test for identifying true wild onion or garlic?
Answer
Crushing the blades thoroughly and sniffing for a strong onion or garlic odor.
The absolute initial and most critical step in identifying any suspected wild onion or garlic, including lawn varieties, is the sensory test focused on aroma. If the suspect blades are thoroughly crushed between the fingers, a true member of the Allium genus will emit an unmistakable and strong odor reminiscent of onions or garlic. If this characteristic pungent scent is absent entirely, the plant should be immediately discarded, as it confirms that the specimen is not the desired edible target, irrespective of its visual appearance or stem structure.
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Using wild onions and garlic from the lawn - YouTube
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