MOUSE GARLIC SEEDS

Allium angulosum

A wonderful little plant. We have actually grown this species for years, in both Iowa and in New York, without really knowing what it was. Having gotten our first small seed crop in 2021, it seemed about time to investigate its true identity...

Native to much of Europe and Siberia, Mouse Garlic resembles the more common Allium tuberosum, and is indeed listed as such by some sources, but the pretty pink flowers have nothing in common with those of Garlic Chives. Considered fairly rare in the wild, appearing only periodically on seasonally damp flood plains, the plants do very well in the average garden, where fertile soils and regular water prolong their bloom and fatten their roots. They have proven a fantastic companion for self-sowing Calendula and Mara de Bois strawberries. In permaculture, they will compete favorably with other species given consistently moist soil. They are hardy to at least zone 3, and can tolerate heat and humidity in frost-free zones.

These seeds will usually germinate readily, without any cold treatment. Sow into cells in winter. Tuck 3-5 seeds per cell just below the surface of moist soil, press to keep seed snug, and mist generously with water. Cover to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm (about 65°F) and moist in bright light, seeds will typically germinate within a week or two. Fertilize weekly with dilute fish and seaweed, and do not allow soil to dry out completely. Harden off before transplanting into the garden in spring. Once established, they require nothing but moist shaded soil in full sun.

Expect new plantings to bloom in the second year. Beginning in the third year, plants can be divided. They will also self-sow where they are happy. Though the leaves to do not have the culinary value of Garlic Chives, the little bulbous roots are quite tasty, especially in spring. The charm of this little plant is such that you really need not utilize it for food to justify growing it. Flowers attract diverse pollinators and are suitable for cutting, but they hold much longer in the garden than they do in a vase, blooming for several weeks in summer. An absolute pleasure.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.