Inchelium Red Softneck Seed Garlic

Quick Reference

Type: Artichoke Softneck  |  Best for Zones: 5–10  |  Planting Season: Fall (Sept–Dec)
Flavor: Rich, full garlic flavor with medium pungency — taste-test champion
Cloves per Bulb: 10–15, multiple layers  |  Bulb Size: Very large (often exceeds 3″ diameter)  |  Storage: 9–10 months
Climate Notes: Adapts well to Southern climates and warmer Northern states; performs across a wide range of zones

About Inchelium Red Garlic

If garlic had a hall of fame, Inchelium Red would have its own wing. This legendary Artichoke-type softneck took top honors in taste tests — and one bite tells you exactly why. Rich, deeply garlicky, and beautifully balanced with medium pungency, it's the kind of garlic that makes everything taste better without overpowering the dish. Originally discovered on the Colville Indian Reservation in Washington State, Inchelium Red has earned a devoted following among home cooks, market growers, and garlic enthusiasts across the country.

Flavor Profile

Rich and full with a classic, deeply satisfying garlic flavor and medium pungency that's approachable for all palates. Inchelium Red is versatile in the kitchen — it roasts beautifully into a sweet, buttery spread, holds up well in long-cooked dishes, and delivers clean, balanced flavor raw. Its taste-test champion status isn't hype; it's the garlic that converts people into garlic growers.

Best Growing Zones

Inchelium Red is an Artichoke softneck that adapts beautifully across USDA hardiness zones 5–10, making it one of the most versatile varieties we offer. It performs especially well in Southern climates and warmer Northern states where hardneck varieties struggle. Gardeners in Tennessee, the Carolinas, Georgia, Texas, California, and the Pacific Northwest will find it an excellent choice.

Planting Instructions

Plant in fall between September and December depending on your zone — softnecks are more flexible on planting timing than hardnecks. Separate bulbs into individual cloves just before planting. Plant 2 inches deep, pointed end up, spaced 6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart. Mulch lightly in colder zones. Inchelium Red is a vigorous grower that produces large, leafy plants through spring and harvests in early summer.

Storage & Curing

Inchelium Red stores for 9–10 months when properly cured — outstanding storage life that makes it a practical choice for year-round kitchen use. After harvest, cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight for 3–4 weeks. Once cured, store in a cool, dry location with good airflow. As a softneck, it's also ideal for braiding — a beautiful and functional way to store and display your harvest.

Shipping Info

🧄 Pre-ordered garlic will begin shipping in September for fall planting. All orders placed after October 1st will ship within 5 business days. You'll receive a tracking email once your order ships. Learn more about our shipping.