Planting and Growing Guide for Leeks (Allium porrum)
Description
Leeks are a cool season biennial bulbs. They have slender leaves with white bases darkening to grey-green.
The white, onion-like bulb and light green shanks are commonly used in cooking, but the whole leaf and flower
are also edible. Leeks have a milder taste than onions and a finer texture.
Leek are members of the onion family and shares similar requirements.
Leeks prefer cool to warm conditions, not hot summers. In cold areas, they are best sown early in
spring after the last frosts. They can be started earlier in seed trays. In warm areas, plant in early autumn (fall)
and harvest late winter/spring.
The best way to grow them, to blanch the steams, is to start by planting seeds in seed trays and then transplanting them into the garden when about until about 20 cm (9 inches) tall. Dig trenches should be about 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) deep. Plant into trenches just covering the roots. The aim is to blanch the stems while the plants are growing by gradually filling in the trench with soil or compost. This will blanch the lower parts of the steams by excluding the light. Aim for a blanched section at least 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) long. Alternatively, leeks can be sown directly into the ground when the soil is warm. Deep holes can be used for blanching as well as trenches.
The ideal size for harvesting is when their diameter is around 2.5 cm (1 inch). Use a garden fork
to help lift mature leeks out of the ground to avoid damaging them. After harvesting, thoroughly wash the
Leeks, inside and out, removing the older outer leaves. They can be thinly sliced and added to salads,
pizzas or pasta sauces. They can be boiled, steamed, grilled and fried. One perfect way is to chop or
thinly slice them into sections which are sliced in half. Separate the rings and fry in butter, or olive oil,
with a little garlic until just tender. Can also be added to casseroles and stews and to tart fillings.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seeds trays and plant out after 4-6 weeks. Or can be directly sown after the last frosts. Sow about 1 cm (1/2 inches) deep. Germination should take about 10 to 15 days.
Space between plants: Space plants about 10-20 cm (4-9 inches) apart. Small plants can be harvested early when thinning. Space rows 20-30 cm (9-12 inches) apart
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 15-17 weeks
Hints:
- Does best in full sun or partial shade
- Does best in rich, loose clay soils with a covering of mulch to inhibit weeds and to keep the soil moist
- Mulch liberally around the plants to control weeds and retain moisture
- Water regularly and evenly, especially in summer
- Plant in batches after the last frost, every 2-3 weeks for a continuous supply.
- Feed regularly and keep the plants growing strongly to produce a good harvest of tender lively plants
- They prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soils (pH 6.5 to 7.5)
- Seedlings are ready for planting out around 8 weeks after germination
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!