The Italian variety of garlic is known as Early Italian. This particular variety is highly regarded for its ability to withstand the summer heat, making it a great choice for gardeners in hotter climates. Whether you’re looking to add a mild, sweet flavor to your soups, salads, or entrees, or if you want to enjoy the deliciousness of roasted or baked garlic, Early Italian is a fantastic option.
One of the standout features of Early Italian garlic is its large creamy cloves. These cloves are wrapped in smooth, light, white-purple wrappers, adding visual appeal to your dishes. The size of the cloves also makes them easy to handle and work with in the kitchen.
I personally have had great success with growing Early Italian garlic in my own garden. The plants have thrived even in the scorching summer temperatures, producing healthy and robust bulbs. The flavor of the garlic is truly exceptional, with its mild and sweet notes adding depth to a variety of dishes.
When it comes to cultivating Early Italian garlic, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to choose a sunny spot in your garden where the garlic can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Garlic is a sun-loving plant and requires adequate light to grow and develop.
Preparing the soil is another crucial step in successfully growing Early Italian garlic. The soil should be well-draining and enriched with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will provide the garlic with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Planting Early Italian garlic should be done in the fall, typically around mid to late October. The cloves should be spaced about 4-6 inches apart and planted with the pointed end facing up. Gently cover the cloves with soil, ensuring that they are planted at a depth of about 2 inches.
Throughout the growing season, it’s important to keep the garlic well-watered, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as garlic bulbs can rot in waterlogged soil. Regular weeding is also necessary to prevent competition for nutrients and ensure optimal growth.
Harvesting Early Italian garlic usually takes place in early summer, around June or July. The leaves will start to turn yellow and dry out, indicating that the bulbs are ready to be harvested. Carefully dig up the bulbs, taking care not to damage them, and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area for a couple of weeks before storing or using them.
The Italian variety of garlic, Early Italian, is a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to add a mild, sweet flavor to their dishes. Its ability to withstand summer heat, along with its large creamy cloves and smooth, light-colored wrappers, make it a popular option for both home cooks and professional chefs.
