Grown all over the world, it's always in season. Don't buy the pre-chopped version unless you're really in a hurry.
Fresh garlic is far superior.
Look for firm bulbs with unbroken skin, and store them in a cool, dry place. A little basket is ideal for this. To easily remove the skin from a garlic clove, place it on a cutting board, and gently pound it once with the bottom of an olive oil bottle. Cut the clove in half, slice, and then mince it finely. One clove of garlic has 2 calories, and contains vitamins C and B, calcium, selenium, phophorous, and potassium.