Chesnok Garlic is a hardneck variety celebrated for its rich, sweet flavour and creamy texture, when roasted. It is highly versatile and excellent for cooking, roasting, or preserving (although it has a mild spiciness when used fresh). Great too for long-term storage.

Bulbils, which grow from the umbel (flower head), are not seeds in the biological sense but are clones of the parent plant. These "false seeds" are free of soil-borne pathogens and can be grown alongside other garlic varieties without risk of cross-pollination, making them perfect for maintaining a diverse garlic patch.

Companion plants such as carrots, beets, spinach, and chamomile pair well with Chesnok Garlic, deterring pests and improving soil health.

Growing Chesnok Garlic from bulbils can take 2-4 years to produce full-sized bulbs.

Where Can You Grow Chesnok Garlic Bulbils

Chesnok Garlic thrives in a wide range of climates and is suitable for Zones 2-9. It can be planted in raised beds, well-draining soil, or garden rows with full sun. Mulching is highly recommended to maintain soil moisture and protect young plants.

History and Historical Uses

Originating from the Republic of Georgia, Chesnok Garlic is a traditional heirloom variety that has been cultivated for centuries. Its sweet, rich flavour has made it a favourite in Georgian cuisine, particularly in roasted dishes and sauces. Introduced to Canadian gardens in the late 20th century, it is now a staple for gardeners seeking a robust, flavourful, and hardy garlic variety. Historically, Chesnok Garlic has also been valued for its health benefits and ability to store well through the winter months.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Plant bulbils in late autumn (October to November), about one month before the first freeze. Garlic will sprout in early spring and mature by mid to late summer.
• Zones 5-7: Plant bulbils in October, before the first freeze. Harvest in late July or August the following year.
• Zones 2-4: Plant bulbils before the first freeze and mulch heavily to protect them from harsh winters. Harvest from late July to early August.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

To save bulbils from Chesnok Garlic, follow these steps:

• Choose the Best Scapes: Let some flower stalks (scapes) develop until the bulbils mature.
• Harvest the Bulbils: When the scapes dry and the bulbils begin to loosen, cut and collect them.
• Clean and Dry: Remove any debris and dry the bulbils for 2-3 weeks in a cool, airy space.
• Store: Store bulbils in a cool, dry location in paper bags or mesh containers. Properly stored bulbils remain viable for several years.

How to Grow from Bulbils

Growing Chesnok Garlic from bulbils can take 2-4 years to produce full-sized bulbs. Steps include:

1. Prepare well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and plant bulbils 1” deep in rows, spacing them 1-2 cm (0.5-1 inch) apart depending on size.
2. Mulch before winter to protect bulbils from frost.
3. Keep the soil moist throughout the growing season and weed carefully.
4. Harvest when the leaves begin to brown (usually mid-July) and save the largest bulbils for replanting.
5. Vernalise bulbils in the fridge or freezer for 1-2 weeks before replanting in well-amended raised beds.