Music Garlic (Lb)

• This is one of the most popular hardnecks
• An aromatic, slightly spicy, incredibly flavorful garlic
• Potent heat that is balanced by the spiciness
• Use in mashed potatoes or with seafood
• Produces between 4-7 large, easy to peel cloves per bulb 
• Shiny-white sheaths with pink-tinged clove skins
• 2" and larger diameter bulbs
• Easy to grow and very cold hardy
• Stores well for a hardneck
• Approximately 5-7 bulbs per pound

Music Garlic, known for its porcelain hardneck variety and exceptionally large cloves, is a favorite among garlic enthusiasts for its aromatic, slightly spicy, and incredibly flavorful profile. If you're considering cultivating it in your garden, here's everything you need to know about growing this popular variety.

Music Garlic, with its large garlic bulbs and classification as a porcelain hardneck variety, stands out among softneck varieties for its robust flavor and easy-to-peel cloves. As with other garlic varieties, this garlic grows best in well-drained soil and exhibits distinctive purple stripes on its outer layers, adding visual appeal to its culinary allure.

When planting this garlic cloves, ensure they are nestled 2 to 3 inches deep in the soil during fall, allowing them ample space to develop into mature bulbs. As one of the many types of garlic, it exemplifies the diversity within the garlic family, offering gardeners and chefs alike a unique combination of flavor, size, and ease of cultivation.

Variety Description

It is classified as a porcelain hardneck garlic, characterized by its large cloves and robust flavor profile. It boasts potent heat balanced by a delightful spiciness, making it a versatile choice for culinary applications.

Planting Time

It is typically planted in the fall for a summer harvest, similar to other hardneck garlic varieties. Planting in the fall allows the cloves to establish roots before winter sets in, leading to healthier plants and larger bulbs.

Once the planted clove takes root, this garlic begins its journey towards becoming fresh garlic, developing its distinct flavor profile throughout the growing season. With its cold-hardy nature, it can withstand chilly temperatures, making it a reliable choice for gardeners in cooler climates seeking a bountiful harvest of flavorful bulbs.

Soil Requirements

This garlic thrives in well-drained soil with good fertility. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and fertility. Aim for a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.

Planting Depth and Spacing

Plant Music Garlic cloves with the pointed end facing upwards, at a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Space the cloves 6 to 8 inches apart within rows, with rows spaced 12 to 18 inches apart. This spacing allows for proper bulb development and airflow around the plants.

Watering and Mulching

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the early stages of growth. Mulching around the garlic plants with organic material such as straw or shredded leaves helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature.

Fertilization

It benefits from regular fertilization to support healthy growth and bulb development. Apply a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen (the first number in the N-P-K ratio) at planting time and side-dress with additional fertilizer once the plants begin actively growing.

Weed Control

Keep the area around the garlic plants free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Regularly remove weeds by hand or use mulch to suppress weed growth and conserve soil moisture.

Scaping

Hardneck garlic varieties like this garlic produce scapes, curly flower stalks that emerge from the center of the plant. While the scapes are edible and delicious, their removal redirects energy to bulb development, resulting in larger cloves. Harvest scapes when they curl once or twice and use them in culinary dishes like pesto or stir-fries.

Harvesting

It is typically ready for harvest in mid-summer, approximately 8 to 9 months after planting. Harvest the bulbs when the tops begin to dry and turn brown, and the outer skin of the bulbs becomes papery. Carefully lift the bulbs from the soil using a garden fork, taking care not to damage them.

Flavor and Aroma Profile of Music Garlic

Flavor Profile: It is celebrated for its rich and robust flavor, characterized by a pungent and slightly spicy taste that adds depth to any dish. This porcelain variety of hardneck garlic produces large cloves with a great taste, making it ideal for roasting, seasoning, and adding complexity to culinary creations. With its cold hardy and easy-to-peel bulbs, it offers a superior flavor experience that enhances everything from mashed potatoes to seafood, and its large bulbs and cloves provide a delightful, rich garlic flavor that's perfect for any kitchen.

Aroma Profile: It is renowned for its robust and aromatic profile, characterized by a pungent and slightly spicy scent that sets it apart from other garlic varieties. The porcelain type of this hardneck garlic emits a rich, aromatic fragrance that enhances the sensory experience when handling the large cloves and bulbs. Its cold-hardy nature ensures that the garlic retains its intense aroma throughout the growing season, providing a captivating and delightful garlic aroma that elevates any culinary application.

Pairing Recommendations

Food Pairings: Music Garlic’s robust and aromatic profile pairs beautifully with rich, hearty dishes. Use this certified organic, porcelain variety in roasted vegetables, where its pungent aroma complements the natural sweetness of the produce. For a delicious twist, try it with seafood or in a creamy mashed potato recipe to enhance the great taste and elevate your culinary creations.

Wine and Beverage Pairings: Pair Music Garlic with a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement its rich, aromatic profile and potent garlic flavor. The large cloves of this certified organic, porcelain variety also pair well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, balancing the pungency with its refreshing acidity. For a unique twist, try a craft beer with a hoppy character to enhance the garlic’s spiciness and elevate your culinary experience.

Why Order From Us?

We proudly offer premium hardneck garlic varieties like Music Garlic, renowned for its rich, robust flavor and large, easy-to-peel cloves. Carefully grown by experienced farmers, our seed garlic is sold by the pound and suitable for both fall and spring planting. It performs exceptionally well in cold climates and consistently yields strong, healthy bulbs. Ready to plant a high-performing garlic crop? Explore our curated selection of hardneck seed garlic varieties and softneck seed garlic varieties to grow a flavorful, productive garden.

Additional images by Lauris, Peaceful Valley customer

** For more information, see our Garlic Resource Center and try out our Garlic Selector Tool to find the perfect garlic for your growing zone and tastes. Or check out all of our Garlic Learning Blogs where our staff have selected dozens of articles, videos, recipes and tips to help you learn how to successfully grow garlic bulbs.**