Softneck Garlic
Photo: "Garlic harvest" by Tony Austin · CC BY 2.0
Root · Garlic

Softneck Garlic

Amaryllidaceae

Fall-planted, harvest following summer (~240 days). Softneck is default for zones 5b-10b. Braidable (grocery-store type). 10-20 smaller cloves per bulb. No scapes. LONGEST storage of any garlic at 9-12 months. Requires 4-8 weeks vernalization below 40°F (natural in cold climates; pre-chill required zones 8a+). NEVER plant in spring — produces small undivided rounds.

At a Glance

Days to Maturity
240–270 days
Sun
6+ hours
Container
Yes
2+ gallon pot

Zone Planting Guide

Growing Guide

Watering

Weekly Water 1 "
Needs Moderate

Soil

pH Range 6–7

Resilience

Heat: Medium Cold: High Drought: Medium

Nutrition

Feeding Intensity Moderate feeder

Sources

seed-catalog Grey Duck Garlic seed-catalog GROeat Garlic Farm seed-catalog Grow Organic

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Softneck Garlic Planting Dates by Zone

Planting dates for Softneck Garlic vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.

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