German Extra Hardy

Garlic

Zone 9a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of German Extra Hardy

🌱 240d to harvest Bulbing

Clove after clove of German Extra Hardy brings a bold, lingering bite with a distinctly robust, savory fragrance that fills the k…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Mar 6th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Nov 28th
Harvest Begins	Jul 26th
Harvest Ends	Nov 26th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	240
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects garlic (Allium sativum), and what should I do if I see it?

Garlic is especially prone to white rot (Sclerotium cepivorum), which causes yellowing, stunted growth, and plants that collapse with a white, cottony fungal growth at the base. Remove and destroy affected plants immediately, and do not replant garlic or other alliums in that bed for at least several years. For prevention in future seasons, use only healthy bulbs, improve drainage, and avoid working in the soil when it’s wet to reduce spread.

How often should I water garlic during active growth, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?

During the main growing phase, keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch of water per week (adjust for rainfall and your soil’s drainage). When the tops are actively growing, water when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out; consistent moisture helps size the bulbs. Stop regular watering when the lower leaves begin to yellow and brown near maturity so cloves can cure instead of staying watery.

How do I tell when my garlic (Allium sativum) is ready to harvest at around 240 days?

Harvest when about 40–60% of the leaves are yellow/brown and the remaining leaves are still green, and when the wrappers around the bulbs feel tight and papery. If you lift a bulb at this stage, the cloves should be well-formed and distinct, not loose or filling-in. After harvesting, cure bulbs in a dry, airy, shaded place for 2–3 weeks before storage.

Clove after clove of German Extra Hardy brings a bold, lingering bite with a distinctly robust, savory fragrance that fills the kitchen long before the first peel. The hardneck heads form with strong, well-defined cloves and a firm, creamy-tender texture when roasted or sautéed, making this variety a favorite for deep-flavored sauces and hearty winter preparations. For home gardeners seeking dependable performance and classic hardneck character, German Extra Hardy rewards with rich, full bulbs at about 240 days.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Plant hardneck garlic cloves pointy-side up in fall with good drainage; mulch heavily and keep evenly moist until growth resumes in spring for the best bulb size.