FLASH MEMORY GARBAGE COLLECTION

Embodiments include methods, systems and computer program products for managing a flash memory device. Aspects include monitoring a percentage of memory of the flash memory device that is in a ready to use state. Aspects also include operating the flash memory device in a first operating mode based on a determination that the percentage is greater than a first threshold value. Aspects further include operating the flash memory device in a second operating mode based on a determination that the percentage has fallen below the first threshold value. Aspects include operating the flash memory device in a third operating mode until the percentage exceeds the first threshold value based on a determination that the percentage has fallen below a second threshold value, which is lower than the first threshold value. The erasing of ready to erase memory block stripes is only performed during the third operating mode.