German White Garlic (Allium sativum var. ophioscorodon German White) is a hardneck porcelain garlic variety valued for its massive white bulbs and four to six large, uniform, plump cloves that are easy to peel. This German White hardneck garlic offers a rich, aromatic, and slightly pungent flavour that makes it a classic choice for home cooking. Its upright, blue-green foliage reaches 50 to 70 cm in height before turning yellow at maturity. Extremely hardy to Zone 2, German White garlic is perfectly suited to Quebecs cold climate and produces abundant, reliable harvests that store well after proper curing.

Plant German White garlic bulbs in fall with the pointed end facing upward, approximately 5 cm deep. Space them 10 to 15 cm apart and leave 30 cm between rows. Choose a location in full sun with loose, fertile, 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. Gradually reduce watering before harvest and remove the flower scapes to encourage larger bulbs.

German White porcelain 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 also edible and delicious sauted, grilled, or added to pesto. The distinctive German White garlic flavour is perfect for sauces, stews, grilled dishes, roasted garlic, lacto-fermentation, and preserving. Harvest the bulbs when approximately half of the foliage has turned yellow, then cure them in a dry, shaded, and well-ventilated location.