Duganski Tops Garlic is a robust and attractive hardneck garlic variety known for its deep purple-skinned bulbs and rich, full-bodied flavor. This garlic produces large, symmetrical bulbs with 6–10 plump, easy-to-peel cloves wrapped in a striking purple hue, making it both culinary and visually appealing. The cloves have a spicy, bold flavor when raw and mellow into a rich sweetness when roasted. It produces a stiff central scape (flower stalk), typical of hardneck types, and is well-suited to cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for fall planting.
- Size: Bulbs grow to approximately 24".
- Planting Time: Late September to early November, 4–6 weeks before ground freezes
- Planting Depth: 2–3 inches deep, pointed end up
- Spacing: 6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter; pH 6.0–7.0
- Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during active growth, reduce watering as bulbs mature in early summer
- Fertilizer: Apply balanced fertilizer or compost at planting; side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer in spring
- Winter Care: Apply 3–4 inches of straw mulch after planting to protect from frost and heaving
- Harvest: Mid to late July, when lower leaves begin to brown but upper ones are still green
- Storage: Cure in a dry, well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks, then store in a cool, dark location
- Duganski garlic stores well for 6–8 months and provides both culinary excellence and garden performance, especially in northern climates.