Alvar Softneck Garlic

Alvar garlic is a rare variety was acquired at the Grindrod Garlic Festival in the Summer of 2023 at a garlic braiding workshop. Hence, I am to believe that it is an amazing softneck variety for braiding.

Softneck Garlic Characteristics:
Softneck garlic, renowned for its adaptability to warmer climates, lacks the cold requirements of its hardneck counterparts. This type is often chosen for commercial cultivation, thanks to its larger bulb size, which yields between 12 to 25 cloves, and its tendency for earlier maturation. Varieties like Silverskin and Artichoke are particularly notable for these qualities.

Planting and Harvesting:
The ideal time to plant softneck garlic is from late October to December. The garlic thrives in well-drained, fertile soil, under full sun exposure, and benefits significantly from mulching. When about half of the leaves have browned, it’s time to harvest. Post-harvest, the garlic should be cured in a warm, dry place.

Growth Habits:
Unlike hardneck varieties, softneck garlic does not produce scapes (flowering stalks). It’s a more commonly found variety due to its familiar taste profile and a longer shelf life. In contrast, hardneck garlic is known for its robust flavor but tends to have a shorter storage period.

Cultivation Tips:
Softneck garlic is ideal for container gardening and requires adequate space – at least 4 inches between each clove – to ensure proper bulb formation. While early harvesting is possible, allowing the garlic to fully develop ensures larger cloves.

Storage and Usage:
Known for its less intense flavor, softneck garlic is a preferred choice for those who enjoy a milder garlic taste. It can be conveniently braided for storage, with a shelf life extending between 6 to 8 months.

These bulbs are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage bulbs that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO garlic bulbs, this selection preserves biodiversity.