I planted some bulbils from Nicky's swap in early spring before the last frost, and I was very pleased with the results. I think they grew as well as the fall planted ones.
Sari, I didn't realize that garlic losses can happen due to severe winter.
I lost more than half the rounds I planted very late last fall, in a location very exposed to northerly winds. It is a sunny spot too, so not sure if there was freeze and thaw action as well. It was a relatively dry winter for us, and I had grass clippings instead of kelp mulch on most of the garlic. Definitely concluded that kelp is better. And to get the beds ready early, not to plant too late.
We had mites attack the garlic just as they were getting full size. Mostly only some wrappers were damaged, but I tried making garlic powder instead of curing the doubtful ones. Wow is that powder ever strong! It smells wonderful, and a nice way to salvage a damaged harvest.
