SHIPPING STARTS IN EARLY OCTOBERCultivate a thriving garlic patch with our Heirloom Softneck Garlic Bulb Sampler, tailored for gardeners across USDA Zones 4–9. This sampler includes 6 bulbs (2 of each) of three heirloom, non-GMO softneck garlic varieties—Dutch Valley, Italian Red, and Silver Rose—delivering a diverse harvest of mild to robust bulbs from early to mid-summer. Perfect for braiding, long-term storage, and versatile culinary use, these disease-resistant varieties are ideal for organic gardeners seeking flavorful, sustainable crops. What’s Included Dutch Valley: Early-season, creamy-white bulbs with a mild, sweet flavor, excellent for fresh use or roasting. Expect 8–12 medium to large cloves per bulb, offering a versatile flavor profile that’s great for roasting, sautéing, or raw applications in pestos and spreads Italian Red: Early to mid-season, robust bulbs with a classic garlic taste, ideal for sauces, fresh use, or braiding. Yields 6–10 large cloves per bulb with white wrappers and occasional red streaks, providing a rich, slightly spicy flavor that intensifies during storage. Silver Rose: Late-season, silvery-white bulbs with a smooth, mild flavor, perfect for braiding and extended storage. Expect 12–18 small to medium cloves per bulb, tightly packed with rose-tinted skins, delivering a delicate, musky taste that enhances dishes without overpowering them. Softneck vs. Hardneck Garlic Softneck Garlic: Known for flexible stalks that allow braiding, softnecks like those in this sampler store longer (6–12 months) and produce more cloves per bulb, making them ideal for organic gardeners prioritizing storage and versatility. They rarely bolt, ensuring consistent bulb growth, and thrive in a wide range of climates (Zones 4–9). Hardneck Garlic: Produces a stiff central stalk (scape) and fewer, larger cloves with bolder flavors. Hardnecks are better suited for colder climates (Zones 3–7) but store for a shorter period (3–6 months). They require scape removal to maximize bulb size, adding an extra step for growers. This sampler’s softneck varieties are chosen for their ease of growth, long storage, and suitability for both novice and experienced gardeners. Why Choose This Sampler? Heirloom Quality: Non-GMO, open-pollinated varieties ensure authentic flavors and genetic diversity. Organic-Friendly: Disease-resistant softnecks thrive with minimal inputs, supporting organic gardening practices. Versatile: Ideal for home gardens, braiding, or local market sales, with bulbs suited for raw, cooked, or preserved dishes. Planting & Spacing When to Plant: Plant cloves in October/November for fall establishment, promoting strong root development before winter. Spacing: Plant cloves 2–3 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart for optimal growth. Use raised beds for better drainage in heavy soils. Care Tips Soil: Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Amend with compost for enhanced bulb development. Watering: Provide 1 inch of water weekly via drip irrigation to maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. Fertilizer: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 1-1-1 NPK) at planting and again in spring. Detailed fertilization recommendations included. Winter Protection: In Zones 4–6, apply 4–6 inches of straw mulch after the first frost to protect cloves. Remove in spring to encourage growth. Pest Control: Softneck garlic is naturally pest-resistant, but monitor for thrips or fungal issues and use row covers if needed. Shipping Ships Late September: Your 6 softneck garlic bulbs will arrive ready for fall planting, ensuring a robust start for next summer’s harvest.
