Killarney Red

Garlic

120d to harvest

Killarney Red hardneck garlic bursts with a vivid, rosy-red wrapper and a bold, aromatic depth that lingers on the palate—rich, savory, and unmistakably “garlic-forward.” Each clove is plump and easy to separate, with a firm, satiny texture that roasts beautifully until mellow and sweet, while still retaining a bright, pungent edge. Grow Killarney Red for standout flavor in sauces, roasted dishes, and pickling, where its distinctive character shines from first harvest through every jar.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Jan 29th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	120
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bulbing
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	50
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage common garlic problems like white rot (Sclerotium cepivorum) in Allium sativum?

White rot shows as yellowing plants that wilt, roots turn brown and mushy, and white fungal growth appears near the base with small black sclerotia. Remove and discard affected plants, and avoid planting garlic or other alliums (onion, leeks) in that bed for several years to reduce spread. Prevent it by planting only healthy cloves and using clean soil/amended beds; once established, there’s no effective home-garden cure.

How often should I water Allium sativum during the main bulbing phase, and what soil moisture level should I maintain?

From about mid-season onward (when bulbs start forming), keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for steady moisture to about 6–8 inches deep. Water when the top 1 inch of soil dries out, typically about once per week in moderate weather, and increase frequency during hot, dry spells. Stop watering in late season (about the last 2–3 weeks) so skins can cure and bulbs don’t rot.

When is Killarney Red garlic (Allium sativum) ready to harvest, and what signs should I look for?

Harvest when lower leaves yellow and flop over—typically around 110–130 days after planting—and about half the leaves are dead while the upper leaves still stand. Gently lift a bulb to check that skins are tight and the cloves are clearly formed and separated. Don’t wait for all leaves to die, or cloves may loosen and bulb quality drops during curing.