Winter Garlic "Oosterdel"

Allium sativum var ophioscorodon subvar marbled purple stripe

Oosterdel is a Dutch-origin winter garlic (hardneck) variety, known for its excellent yield, early ripening, and outstanding resistance to cold and moisture. The variety forms large, firm, light heads with a distinctly white skin tone and well-structured inner cloves.

Oosterdel is especially popular in commercial plantings due to its uniform size, stable yield, and pleasantly sharp taste. Suitable for both fresh consumption and long-term storage.

History

The Oosterdel variety originated in Dutch breeding centers, where it was developed by analyzing local cold-resistant and productive lines. The Dutch climate, with its wet winters and cool springs, created the need for a variety that could withstand not only frost but also prolonged moisture.

Oosterdel quickly spread to Belgium, Germany, and later Northern Europe, where growers appreciated its yield and early ripening. Today, it has become a reliable variety also in the Baltic States.

Description

Type: hardneck
Vegetation period: early to medium
Head size: 50–60 mm
Number of cloves: 6–10 symmetrical cloves
Head color: bright white, sometimes with a pearly hue
Clove color: light creamy
Taste: sharp, pure, with a fresh aftertaste
Aroma: moderately intense, pleasant
Yield: very high, suitable for commercial cultivation
Winter hardiness: high; suitable for wet and cool regions
Disease resistance: high tolerance to fungal infections, especially mold and root rot
Storage: 6–8 months without losing flavor
Soil requirements: medium-heavy, well-drained soil; also tolerates heavier soils

Oosterdel is a popular winter hardneck garlic variety, distinguished by excellent yield, early maturity, and high winter hardiness. This white garlic variety is ideally suited for cultivation in wet and cool climates, including the Netherlands, the Baltic States, and Scandinavia.

Consistent head quality, large clove size, and long storage capability make Oosterdel perfectly suitable for private farms and professional production.