Purple Glazer Garlic

Purple Glazer Garlic (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon Purple Glazer) is a hardneck Glazed Purple Stripe garlic variety distinguished by its uniform bulbs wrapped in glossy purple-violet skins. Its plump cloves develop a mild, rich, and slightly sweet flavour that is especially valued in gourmet cooking. Its upright, blue-green foliage reaches 40 to 60 cm in height before fading at maturity. Extremely hardy to Zone 2, this garlic is perfectly suited to Quebecs cold climate. Productive and reliable, it provides a generous harvest of attractive bulbs that can be stored for several months after proper curing.

Plant the cloves in fall with the pointed end facing upward, approximately 5 cm deep, spacing them 10 to 15 cm apart and leaving 30 cm between rows. Choose a location in full sun with loose, organically rich, and perfectly drained soil. An application of well-aged compost before planting encourages bulb development, while excessive nitrogen mainly promotes foliage growth. Water lightly after planting, then moderately during active growth without keeping the soil constantly wet. Gradually reduce watering before harvest and remove the flower scapes to encourage larger bulbs.

Purple Glazer garlic is ideal for family vegetable gardens, food gardens, edible flower beds, and large, well-drained containers. It grows well alongside carrots, tomatoes, beets, lettuce, and strawberries while helping deter certain pests. Its young flower scapes are edible and delicious sauted, grilled, or made into pesto; when left on the plant, their flowers may attract pollinators. The cloves are perfect for stir-fries, grilled dishes, marinades, sauces, flavoured butters, and roasted garlic. Harvest when approximately half of the foliage has faded, then cure the bulbs in a dry, well-ventilated location.