Softneck varieties are easy to grow and tolerate a wide variety of climate conditions and are especially good for warfmer climates. The bulbs can be rather large with multiple layers of cloves. They have superior shelf life, and under proper conditions can be stored for up to 9 months. And they have some wonderful and pungent flavors. Planted bulbs generally yield 5-8 times their weight at harvest. A half pound will provide cloves for 20-30 plants. Hint: Plant the biggest cloves, and eat the rest. See How to Grow Garlic for planting details. TheGarlicStore.com is a Certifed Organic Processor/Handler by the Colorado Department of Agriculture. All varieties are certified organic.
4430 Inchelium Red - whole bulbs, 8 oz, $9.95 Our favorite among the softnecks. Its relatively spicy but prolonged taste won the 1990 garlic tasting test at Rodale Kitchens. Originally found growing in the Colville Indian Reservation, it is an "artichoke" softneck. The bulbs can be rather large, sometimes 3 inches across, and can have up to 20 cloves. It stores well. The flavor becomes more pronounced over time. Certified organic. US/C