Garlic Varieties: Softneck vs Hardneck Garlic

Variety? What do you mean? Isn’t garlic…just GARLIC?? In the wonderful world of garlic, there

are many different varieties of the flavorful vegetable. There are two main categories of garlic: Hardneck and Softneck. So, what does that even mean?!? Here’s the simple answer; the “neck” refers to the actual stalk that grows up from the center of the plant.

Softneck vs Hardneck Garlic

Now, here’s a more detailed explanation; the Hardneck’s stalk is rigid and produces a scape and flower while the Softneck stalks have leaves and are soft and flexible, easy to braid. Typically, the Softneck varieties will store much longer than the Hardneck varieties due to the bulbs’ skin being much tighter around the neck which helps preserve the cloves longer. The Hardneck varieties are more flavorful and easier to peel. Whew, lots of random info, I know, but we think it’s pretty interesting! So, now that you know the differences between the Hardnecks vs. Softnecks, here is a cheat sheet with our current varieties to help you decide which garlic is right for you!

Varieties of Hardneck Garlic

Penn Wonder - Penn Wonder garlic has a very rich, robust flavor. It has large cloves that are easier to peel than most garlics which makes them a favorite in most kitchens. It will store for 4-6 months.

Purple Glazer - Purple Glazer (Glazed Purple Stripe) garlic has fat, small-medium bulbs with a

smooth, almost silky clove wrapper. It has a nice, strong garlic flavor. It will store for 4-6 months.

Music - This Garlic is HOT when consumed raw, yet sweet and hearty when it is baked. Music is known for its easy to peel, extra-large cloves. It will store up to 9 months.

Elephant Garlic - A huge bulb you must see to believe. It is said to be the garlic for the people

who don’t like garlic. The flavor is extremely mild and not overpowering in any way. It will store for 4-6 months.

Varieties of Softneck Garlic

Inchelium Red - The Inchelium Red has 4-5 layers with 8 to 20 cloves. This garlic seems to have heavier, more dense bulbs than other Artichoke varieties. This garlic has a mild but very

flavorful taste. It will store up to 10 months.

Susanville - Susanville garlic’s flavor is more on the mild side and is a great selection for any

pickling you do. Long storage life with many uses, Susanvilles will store up to 10+ months.

Chopaka Mountain - This garlic has a milder flavor that tends to linger more than other

varieties. It is believed to have originally come from the Inchelium Reds. It will store up to 10

months.

Silver White - This is the garlic you’ll find in most stores with a sweeter, more mellow flavor. It

will store for 10-12 months.

We are ever expanding here at the farm and can’t wait to introduce new varieties each year! In the wonderful world of garlic, there are hundreds of different varieties (fun fact, there are well over 460 different ones!). These are just what we are offering this year at the farm! We have our favorites here, but I’m not going to tell you that secret…we want you to try for yourself! Let us know what your favorite is and why!

For now, Blessings, Love and Garlic!

Xo ~ Hannah