Garlic

New Zealand sourced garlic seed from Marlborough. 

Printanor is the main variety of garlic grown for commercial production within New Zealand and is also favoured by home gardeners due to its bulb quality and reliability even under a range of growing conditions. With a strong growing habit, Printanor consistently produces good yields and is well known for its excellent long storage life. As a softneck variety, it lacks a central flower stalk, which allows storage of up to 9 months or more.

Known for a "medium to strong" flavour, Printanor is considered a classic, versatile garlic that is well-balanced for all cooking styles, including roasting, sauces, and dressings. 

Caring for Garlic

We recommend planting your garlic as soon as you receive the bulbs.

If you wish to hold your garlic before planting keep the bulbs intact, do not separate into individual cloves as these degrade more quickly. Ensure bulbs are placed in a cool, dark location. Do not place it in a sealed container or under refrigeration.

Planting Garlic

Garlic is best planted through the months of May, June and July, but can be planted into August. For South Island gardeners and growers, April/May may give better results. We recommend trialling what is best for your individual location.

Select a free-draining site that has good sun exposure and ensure all soil amendments are done prior to planting ie compost, sheep pellets etc.

You will need to break the bulbs up into the individual cloves. Do not peel the cloves, leave the papery skins on the clove. 

Plant individual cloves with pointed ends facing upward around 5cm below the soil surface. Plant in rows spacing each clove 15cm apart and with 30cm between each row. Appropriate spacing provides room to allow bulb development and supports better air movement to help prevent disease.

Shoots should begin to emerge around 1 month after planting.

Growing Garlic

Consistent moisture supports steady development, though overwatering or waterlogged ground should be avoided. 

Removing weeds regularly is paramount! Garlic requires a lot of nutrients and doesn't like to compete with weeds for them. Weeds will also block sunlight and reduce airflow creating greater disease pressure.

As big feeders, garlic benefits from occasional feeding during active growth stages.

Harvesting & Storing Garlic

Garlic will mature around 7 months from planting, once leaves begin to yellow and fall over, usually in early summer. Lift bulbs carefully from soil, then allow them to dry in a warm, shaded space with good airflow. Once cured, store in a cool, dark area to extend shelf life and maintain flavour.