Purple Russian Bulbils

All our Bulbils are 100% Canadian Grown, Processed-by-Hand, Non-GMO, Certified Organic, and Open Pollinated. From our 10 acre Seed Farm in Metchosin, BC since 2004.

Quick Notes

• Hot yet a little earthy
• Beautiful purple-striped hardneck garlic variety
• Free from soil-borne diseases as they are "false seeds"
• Hardy and cold-tolerant, ideal for northern climates
• Easy seed saving ✅

About Purple Russian Bulbils

Purple Russian garlic is a striking hardneck variety with gorgeous purple-striped cloves and a hot flavour. The hint of earthy sweetness makes it versatile for cooking, roasting, and preserving. Bulbils are not seeds in the true biological sense but are clones of the parent plant, free from soil-borne diseases and perfect for growing a sustainable garlic supply.

This variety thrives in cold climates and is known for its strong growth and large, flavourful bulbs. It is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for both beauty and performance.

Companion plants like carrots, beets, spinach, and chamomile pair well with Purple Russian garlic, helping deter pests and improve soil health.

Where Can You Grow Purple Russian Bulbils

This hardy garlic variety thrives in well-draining soil with full sun and is suitable for Zones 2-9. It is perfect for garden beds, raised beds, or containers. Mulching is recommended to retain soil moisture and protect plants during harsh winters.

History and Historical Uses

Purple Russian garlic is an heirloom variety with roots in Eastern Europe, where it was cultivated for its cold-hardiness and exceptional flavour. Celebrated for its culinary versatility, this variety has been used for generations in traditional dishes and as a natural remedy for its health benefits.

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 before the first freeze and mulch heavily to protect the bulbils during harsh winters. Harvest from late July to early August.
  

How to Grow Purple Russian Bulbils

1. Planting: In the fall, plant bulbils 2.5cm (1in) deep and 1-2cm (0.5-1in) apart. Cover with 5-7.5cm (2-3in) of mulch to protect them over winter.
2. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season.
3. Weeding: Weed carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow root systems.
4. Harvesting: Bulbils will sprout in spring, and mature garlic can be harvested mid-summer when leaves begin to brown.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Choose the Best Scapes: Allow some flower stalks (scapes) to develop fully until bulbils mature.
2. Harvest: Once scapes dry and the bulbils begin to loosen, cut and collect them.
3. Dry and Store: Clean the bulbils and spread them to dry for 2-3 weeks in a cool, airy space. Store in paper bags or mesh containers in a dry location.

How to Propagate Garlic from Bulbils

Growing garlic from bulbils takes patience, requiring 2-4 years to produce full-sized bulbs.

• Year 1: Plant bulbils shallowly (1in deep) and allow them to grow into small rounds or immature bulbs.
• Year 2-4: Replant the largest rounds in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with proper spacing (10-15cm/4-6in apart). Mulch heavily and harvest when mature.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)