German Red Garlic (lb)

• This spicy garlic with an oniony flavor came to this country over a hundred years ago with German immigrants
• Its strong heat is like a hot pepper, makes excellent salsa
• Approximately 8-10 good sized cloves per bulb and 6-8 bulbs per pound
• A vigorous grower that flourishes in colder areas of our country
• 2" and larger diameter bulbs.
• Grown in Canada

Exploring the Robust Flavor and Cultivation of German Red Garlic

German Red garlic is a hardneck variety prized for its strong, spicy flavor and excellent storage capabilities. Known for its resilience and vigorous growth, this garlic is particularly well-suited for colder climates. Its vibrant red-tinted cloves and reliable yield make it a favorite among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts who seek both aesthetic appeal and robust taste.

Flavor and Aroma Profile

• Flavor Profile: This garlic is celebrated for its robust, spicy flavor with strong heat when raw, which mellows into a rich, savory taste when cooked. As a Rocambole hardneck variety, it delivers a deep, full-bodied garlic flavor that stands out in hearty dishes. It’s highly prized by culinary enthusiasts for its ability to add intensity and complexity to everything from roasted meats to stir-fries and stews.

• Aroma Profile: When chopped or crushed, this garlic releases a potent and pungent aroma with earthy undertones. The scent becomes even more aromatic as it cooks, enhancing savory dishes with a bold, mouthwatering fragrance. This variety’s raw aroma also shines in fresh preparations like garlic butter, dressings, and rubs.

Characteristics of German Red Garlic

It is easily identifiable by its large bulbs, which contain 8-12 plump cloves. The cloves are covered in reddish-brown skins, giving them a distinctive appearance that stands out in any kitchen. Each bulb is typically encased in a white outer skin, creating a striking contrast with the reddish cloves inside.

One of the most notable features of this garlic is its strong, spicy flavor. This variety offers a pungent taste that is ideal for those who enjoy a bold garlic presence in their dishes. The flavor profile of it is often described as hot and zesty, making it a preferred choice for adding a kick to a wide range of culinary creations.

Growing German Red Garlic

Growing this garlic requires careful attention to planting and cultivation practices to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some essential tips for growing this robust variety:

1. Soil Preparation: It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. Amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to enhance its nutrient content. The ideal pH for garlic is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
2. Spacing and Depth: Plant the cloves 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Place each clove with the pointed end up and cover it with about 2 inches of soil. Proper spacing is crucial to allow the bulbs to develop fully and avoid competition for nutrients and space.
3. Mulching: Apply a generous layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to help insulate the soil, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Mulching also provides protection during the winter months and helps maintain soil temperature and moisture levels.
4. Watering: Maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so it’s crucial to maintain a balance.
5. Fertilization: Feed the garlic with a balanced fertilizer or organic amendments in the early stages of growth. Additional side dressing with compost or a high-nitrogen fertilizer can promote healthy foliage and bulb development.

Harvesting

It is typically ready for harvest in mid to late summer, depending on the planting time and growing conditions. Harvest when the lower leaves start to brown and dry, leaving a few green leaves at the top. Carefully lift the bulbs from the soil and allow them to cure in a shaded, well-ventilated area for about two weeks. Proper curing enhances the garlic's storage life and flavor.

Culinary Uses

The strong, spicy flavor of it makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Its cloves can be used raw in robust salads, dressings, and salsas, or cooked in a variety of dishes, including roasts, soups, and sauces. This garlic variety also roasts beautifully, developing a sweet, mellow flavor that enhances a wide range of culinary creations.

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.

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.

Why Order From Us?

We proudly offer premium hardneck garlic varieties like German Red Garlic, carefully cultivated by experienced growers to ensure excellent germination and vigorous growth. Sold by the pound, this Rocambole variety thrives in fall planting and performs best in colder climates with a true winter chill. Place your order today to browse our selection of hardneck seed garlic varieties and softneck seed garlic varieties—ideal for cultivating a flavorful and productive garden.

For more information, see our Garlic Resource Center. Our staff have selected dozens of articles, videos, recipes and tips with everything you need to successfully grow garlic bulbs.