Tibetan Garlic is a robust hardneck garlic variety, prized for its bold, spicy flavour. Adapted to withstand cold climates, it is a reliable choice for Canadian gardeners looking for both flavour and resilience. Tibetan Garlic produces large bulbs with tightly packed cloves, perfect for roasting, cooking, or preserving.

Bulbils grow from the flower stalks (umbels), serving as clones of the parent plant. These "false seeds" are free from soil-borne pathogens and allow for easy propagation and pest-free growing.

Companion plants like carrots, spinach, and marigolds thrive alongside Tibetan Garlic, deterring pests and enriching the soil.

Where Can You Grow Tibetan Garlic

This garlic thrives in Zones 2-9, flourishing in well-draining soil with full sun. It is suitable for garden beds, raised beds, or containers, and mulching is recommended to protect young plants and maintain soil moisture.

History and Historical Uses

Tibetan Garlic originates from the high-altitude regions of Tibet, where it was cultivated for its hardiness and strong flavour. Traditionally used in Himalayan cuisine and remedies, it has been celebrated for its health benefits, including boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. Its introduction to Canada has made it a favourite for gardeners seeking reliable and flavourful garlic.

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 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 Tibetan Garlic 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)