German Red, Hardneck, Seed Garlic

Pricing is per pound of seed garlic.

Overview

German Red garlic is known for its full-bodied, hot flavor with a rich, garlicky aroma. This makes it an excellent choice for dishes that require a strong garlic presence, such as roasted meats, soups, and stews. The cloves are easy to peel, and the bulbs are densely packed, ensuring a rich yield. Its spicy bite mellows slightly when cooked, adding a complex depth to your dishes.

Characteristics

• Type: Hardneck
• Size: Medium to large bulbs with 8-12 cloves each
• Color: Reddish-brown wrappers with purple streaks
• Storage Time: Up to 6 months
  

Growing Tips

• Planting: Best planted in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first hard frost. Space cloves 6-8 inches apart in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.
• Watering & Care: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Garlic does not do well with heavy weed competition so keep garlic beds well weeded.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again in early spring for best results. Garlic is a heavy feeder and you wont get good big garlic heads if you dont fertilize heavily. 

Harvesting Tips

• Timing: Harvest in mid-summer when the lower leaves turn brown, but the upper leaves are still green. Best to harvest after a dry spell and/or when it is close to ready and before a big rain to avoid excessive molding.
• Process: Carefully dig up the bulbs with a garden fork, ensuring not to damage them directly. Cure in a dry, well-ventilated area for 3-4 weeks.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place with good air circulation to ensure maximum shelf life.