Flavorful Garlic Varieties Available at NatureHills.com

Garlic, a flavorful, edible member of the Allium family, is an essential addition to vegetable and kitchen gardens. With its pungent flavor, many culinary uses, and rich health benefits, Garlic is versatile and rewarding to grow!

Grocery store varieties are often imported and treated to prevent sprouting. But Garlic bulbs at Nature Hills are untreated and ready to grow.

The Basics of Growing Garlic

Garlic is typically planted in the fall in most climates. Garlic sets and dormant bulbs mature much faster than planting Garlic from seed.

During the cool season, it develops roots, enters dormancy over winter, and then rapidly sprouts in early spring. By summer, it’s ready to harvest, providing delicious bulbs for cooking and preserving.

When crushed, peeled, or chewed, Garlic releases allicin, the sulfur compound responsible for its distinctive aroma and robust flavor. The purplish-pink flowers of edible Garlic varieties can rival ornamental Alliums in charm! The bees and butterflies adore them either way!

Garlic bulbs are made up of tightly packed cloves encased in papery skins. They can be used fresh, roasted, sautéed, or even eaten raw, depending on your desired flavor intensity. Don’t forget about the edible leaves, scapes, and flowers—they’re just as versatile!

Types of Garlic: Hardneck vs Softneck Garlic

There are two primary types of Garlic—Hard-neck and Soft-neck.

• Hardneck Garlic:
  Known for its large, easy-to-peel cloves and bold flavor, Hardneck Garlic grows a central hard stalk and produces edible scapes. It thrives in colder climates and is ideal for gardeners seeking robust, gourmet varieties.
• Softneck Garlic:
  This is the typical grocery store Garlic, featuring a milder flavor and a longer shelf life. It performs best in warmer climates and is excellent for braiding and long-term storage.
• Elephant Garlic:
  While not a true Garlic, Elephant Garlic is a type of Leek with massive cloves, large bulbs, and a milder, sweeter flavor profile.

Planting Garlic Cloves

For cooler climates, plant Garlic six to eight weeks before the ground freezes in the fall. In warmer growing zones, Garlic can be planted in early spring.

1. Separate bulbs into individual cloves.
2. Plant cloves root-side down, pointed-end up, about 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 6 inches apart.
3. Cover with 1-2 inches of soil and a thick layer of mulch for added protection and fertility.

Caring For & Harvesting Garlic

Garlic needs full sun and well-draining soil. Follow these tips to ensure a bountiful harvest:

• Watering: Provide moderate moisture, but avoid waterlogged soil.
• Fertilization: Enrich the soil with compost or apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Mulching: Cover the planting area with 3-4 inches of mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

Harvest Garlic when the foliage begins to yellow or dry out. Gently lift the bulbs from the soil, clean them, and store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

Creative Uses for Garlic

Garlic isn’t just for cooking! It can be made into Garlic braids for unique gifts or kitchen décor, dried to make Garlic powder, or preserved in flavored vinegar.

For long-term storage, freeze minced Garlic or whole cloves. You can also slice and dehydrate Garlic and then pulverize it in a food processor for your own DIY Garlic power for convenient use year-round.

Health Benefits of Garlic

Garlic has a rich history of medicinal use, dating back to Hippocrates. Modern research suggests Garlic may help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. It also supports cardiovascular health, boosts immunity, and has natural antibiotic properties.

Get Growing Garlic Today!

Ready to enjoy homegrown Garlic? It’s an easy choice for home gardeners! Browse the flavorful varieties available at NatureHills.com and bring this versatile, healthy crop to your garden. From robust Hardneck types to long-lasting Softneck varieties, you’ll find the perfect Garlic for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best soil conditions for growing Garlic?
Garlic thrives in well-draining, rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

What is the difference between Hardneck and Softneck Garlic?
Hardneck Garlic has a central stalk and produces scapes, while Softneck Garlic has a milder flavor and longer shelf life.

Can Garlic grow in containers?
Yes, easy to grow Garlic bulbs can grow in deep containers with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight.

When should I harvest Garlic?
Harvest Garlic when the foliage starts to yellow or brown, typically in early summer.

What is the best climate for Garlic?
Hardneck varieties thrive in cold climates, while Softneck Garlic performs well in warmer regions.

Can I use Garlic scapes in cooking?
Absolutely! Scapes have a mild, garlicky flavor perfect for stir-fries, pesto, and salads.

How do I store harvested Garlic?
Store Garlic in a cool, dry place with good air circulation to prevent spoilage.

What are the benefits of eating raw Garlic?
Raw Garlic retains maximum allicin content, which offers potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Can Garlic deter pests in the garden?
Yes, Garlic is a natural pest repellent and can help deter aphids, snails, and other common garden pests. Use it as a companion plant throughout your garden!