'Purple Stripe' Garlic

Purple Stripe Garlic (Allium sativum Purple Stripe) is a hardy and productive variety that forms large, plump bulbs wrapped in elegant purple-and-silver-striped skins. This Allium sativum garlic develops a rich, balanced flavour that becomes pleasantly mild after cooking, making its cloves especially valued in the kitchen. Its upright, blue-green foliage reaches 40 to 60 cm in height before turning yellow and drying at maturity, signalling that harvest time is approaching. Well suited to Zone 3, garlic Allium sativum Purple Stripe withstands Quebec winters very well and produces high-quality bulbs with excellent storage potential.

Plant each Allium sativum bulb clove in fall with the pointed end facing upward, approximately 5 cm deep and spaced 10 to 15 cm apart. Choose a location in full sun with loose, sandy, fertile, and perfectly drained soil, as heavy or waterlogged soils encourage rot. An application of well-aged compost before planting is generally sufficient; avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes foliage growth at the expense of bulb development. Water moderately during active growth, then gradually reduce watering as the bulbs approach maturity. Weed regularly and harvest when one-third to one-half of the leaves have turned yellow.

Allium sativum Purple Stripe is ideal for traditional vegetable gardens, edible flower beds, raised beds, and large, well-drained containers. It grows well alongside strawberries, lettuce, beets, carrots, and tomatoes, while helping deter certain pests. The Allium sativum flower scapes can be removed to direct the plants energy toward bulb development, although any flowers allowed to bloom may attract some pollinators. After harvesting, cure the bulbs for several weeks in a dry, shaded, and well-ventilated location. Their excellent storage life allows their flavour to be enjoyed for months, especially when roasted, added to sauces, or served on toasted bread.