Hardneck Garlic-Montana Giant (Fall Planting)
Porcelain type. Gaining popularity more recently, Montana Giant hardneck garlic originated in Flathead Valley, Montana. Similar to Music, but some say it has a better flavor. Grow well in northern areas and can produce jumbo-sized cloves. Full-flavored with a little spiciness, but not overpowering, great for using raw. 4-6 large cloves per bulb. Stores well.
(approx. 12-18 cloves per order)
PLANTING
Separate cloves, plant 2-4 inches deep and 5-6 inches apart with the pointed end up, 3-4 weeks before the ground freezes.
HARVEST
When the lower 4-5 leaves have dried. Dry and hang in a warm, well-ventilated area out of direct light. After they have dried for 2-3 weeks, cut off the stem 1" from the bulb and trim the roots.
TIPS
Plant in well-drained, rich soil and amend with organic matter, such as compost. Mulch the garlic 4" with straw or chopped leaves; this helps protect from extreme winter conditions, keeps the soil evenly moist, and controls weeds for next season. Cut off scapes when they emerge (the curly seed stalk that will rise from the middle of the plant) so the plant can put energy into producing the bulb, not the seed head. You can leave scapes on, producing smaller bulbs, and the bulbets from the seed head can be planted for full-sized garlic in 2 years.