I am sorry for the delay in replying, MaryE, but I just got back from ten days in Ireland and then was away three days for an out-of-town football game. And, in answer to your question, I have ordered garlic bulbs from several suppliers. One is Garmet Garlic Gardens (Texas), another is Afternoon Zephyr Farm (Oregon), and the last order just received was from Forever Yong Farm (I think Arizona).
I have just planted my cloves in a raised bed (and a few dozen cloves in large, deep pots). I planted approximatly 150-200 cloves and perhaps 12-15 varieties. Being in NE Mississippi, I order Creole varieties and varieties that grow well in warm weather. The creole varities are really special, maintaining good zest after cooking, and are generally more expensive than other varieties.
My wife and I love garlic and cook with it regularly. There is nothing quite like the "gourmet" varieties when compared to grocery store garlic. I never knew why the stores put the elephant bulb in a mesh bag. You enlighted me and that makes perfectly good sense for them to do so.
If you have interest, I will be glad to list the varieties I just planted. Ken
