Best Garlic for Northern States

[gardenvt]

I am getting ready to place an order for garlic and would like to know what others are growing and the storage for that particular.

I have heard that Music (stiffneck) produces well, tastes great and stores for a long time. I have also heard that most stiffneck garlic doesn't store well.

I want the garlice for good storage, flavor fresh and roasted and for the scapes which would be lovely on the grill I am told.

So, tell me - what are you growing and why?

[stella1751]

When I was studying this two years ago, the clear winner was the music for northern gardeners. Because my planting was a last-minute affair, I planted some softneck unknowns I bought at Albertsons. They did okay. I planted the biggest bulbs from those the next year, and I now have a much more attractive crop than I did the prior year.

Here's a good link for varieties and care of garlic for northern gardeners:

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs

My niece-in-law, who lives in Ontario, purchases pickled garlic at the farmers market. I asked her to ask the vendor what kind they wore, and he told her music.

[DoubleDogFarm]

Yes, Music is my number one choice. Good size bulbs, good scapes and long storage. Harvest in July-August, hold over until late Oct-Nov and plant.

Eric

[gardenvt]

So, once I get the garlic started, I'll have my own "sets" for the next year.

Where do/did you buy your garlic?

[TZ -OH6]

Here is a good article

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/1030/

[DoubleDogFarm]

A local farm stand or farmer's market is a good choice for garlic bulbs. This way you know it's a variety for your local climate.

Eric

[gardenvt]

I'm thinking I will go with German Extra Hardy and Music. I'm not clear on the storage capabilities. Territorial Seeds says Music will store 10 months others say 6 months. German hardy should store for 10 months.

Is that your experience?