Organic Early Purple Italian Garlic (lb)

• Bulb is white-skinned (can have purple coloring depending on soil)
• Widely grown around Gilroy, California, the “garlic capital” of the world.
• Approximately 8-12 cloves per bulb and 5-6 bulbs per pound
• Vigorous plant that grows well in the summer heat
• Grown in Washington

Flavor and Aroma Profile

• Flavor Profile: Early Purple Italian garlic is celebrated for its mild yet distinctly garlicky flavor. As a softneck variety, it tends to be less pungent than softneck types, with a smooth, mellow warmth that develops a subtle sweetness when roasted. Its gentle flavor makes it highly versatile in the kitchen—ideal for raw dishes like garlic bread and salad dressings, as well as cooked recipes like soups, sauces, and roasts.

• Aroma Profile: When crushed or chopped, it releases a classic garlic aroma that is savory and slightly sweet. While not overpowering, its fragrance enriches a variety of dishes with a comforting, home-cooked appeal. The aroma becomes more pronounced during sautéing or roasting, adding depth and warmth to meals.

Characteristics of Early Purple Italian Garlic

Early Purple Italian garlic is easily recognizable by its striking purple-striped bulbs. Each bulb contains 8-12 cloves, with the outer layers showcasing a beautiful purple hue that adds a decorative touch to any kitchen. The cloves themselves are wrapped in tan-colored skins, providing a visually appealing contrast.

One of the standout features of this garlic is its mild, yet rich flavor. This garlic variety offers a balanced taste that is less pungent than many softneck varieties, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subtle garlic flavor. Its versatility in culinary applications, from raw to cooked dishes, makes it a favorite among chefs and home cooks.

Growing Early Purple Italian Garlic

Growing this garlic is a rewarding experience, thanks to its adaptability and ease of cultivation. Here are some essential tips for successfully growing this variety:

1. Planting Time: The optimal time to plant this variety of garlic is in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first expected frost. In warmer climates, it can also be planted in early spring. This flexibility allows for successful cultivation in various growing regions.
2. Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Garlic thrives in loose, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance its nutrient content.
3. Spacing and Depth: Plant the cloves 4-6 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Insert each clove with the pointed end up, about 2 inches deep. Proper spacing is crucial to allow the bulbs to develop fully and avoid competition for nutrients and space.
4. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Mulching also provides additional insulation during cooler months.
5. 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 important to strike a balance.
6. Fertilization: Feed the garlic with a balanced fertilizer or organic amendments in the early stages of growth. Side dressing with compost or a high-nitrogen fertilizer can promote healthy foliage and bulb development.

Harvesting

It is typically ready for harvest in early to mid-summer, depending on the planting time and climate. 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 mild, balanced flavor of Early Purple Italian garlic makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Its cloves can be used raw in salads, salsas, and dressings, 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.

It is a unique and flavorful garlic variety that offers numerous benefits to gardeners and cooks alike. Its vibrant color, mild flavor, and reliable growth make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to cultivate garlic. By following proper planting, growing this garlic, and harvesting techniques, gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this attractive and adaptable garlic variety year after year.

Best Practices for Drying and Freezing

Freezing garlic after it's been properly cured is an excellent way to preserve its flavor and texture. For Early Purple Italian garlic, a softneck type known for its good storage life, curing is key before freezing. You can freeze it as whole bulbs, individual cloves (peeled or unpeeled), or minced—depending on how you plan to use it. While freezing freshly harvested (uncured) garlic is possible, it's not ideal, as the higher moisture content can lead to a mushy texture and diminished flavor after thawing.

Why Order From Us?

We proudly offer top-quality garlic varieties, including Early Purple Italian—a reliable softneck garlic favored for its excellent storage life and mild, classic garlic flavor. Grown by experienced farmers, our seed garlic is selected for strong germination and dependable yields. Sold by the pound, this variety performs especially well in warmer climates and is ideal for fall planting. Order today and explore our full range of hardneck seed garlic varieties and softneck seed garlic varieties to build a flavorful, 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.