Introduction
Leeks are a classic crop in British gardens and apportioning — hardy , versatile , and perfect for extending your harvest home into the colder months . Whether you ’re search to farm a few Allium porrum for homemade soup or a steady supply through wintertime , learninghow to establish leeks for a long harvestis a worthwhile investment for any nurseryman .
In this comprehensive guide , we ’ll walk you through everything you need to cognize to grow leeks successfully — from sowing and transplanting to harvesting and storage . Whether you ’re a father or a veteran grower , this pathfinder will help you relish sweet , flavourful leeks from summer to spring .
Why Grow Leeks at Home?
Types of Leeks for Different Harvest Times
There are two principal categories of Allium porrum : TypeHarvest PeriodVariety ExamplesSummer LeeksAugust to OctoberCarlton F1 , King Richard , Oarsman F1Autumn / WinterNovember to FebruaryMusselburgh , Bandit , Autumn GiantOverwinteringFebruary to AprilBlauwgroene Winter , Atlanta , Bleu de Solaise
crown : To delight a foresighted harvest , stagger your sowingand develop a mix of early and late - time of year varieties .
When to Plant Leeks in the UK
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Leeks for a Long Harvest
Step 1: Start Seeds Indoors or Outdoors
Step 2: Prepare the Planting Site
Leeks thrive in :
Step 3: Transplanting Leeks
When your seedlings are pencil - deep ( usually by May or June ) , they ’re ready to go into their final growing side .
Why this method?It help producelong , blanched stems — the desirable part of the scallion .
Caring for Your Leeks
1. Watering
2. Feeding
3. Weeding
4. Earthing Up
Companion Planting with Leeks
scallion are great companion plants for many vegetable :
Good Companions:
Avoid Planting Near:
Common Leek Problems and Solutions
Harvesting Leeks
When to Harvest:
Harvest when stanch reach2–5 cm in diam , depending on your taste .
How to Harvest:
Storing and Preserving Leeks
In the Ground:
In the Fridge:
Freezing Leeks:
Growing Leeks in Containers or Raised Beds
Leeks can grow well in containers if late enough .
How-To:
How to Plan for a Long Harvest
1. Stagger Sowing:
2. Choose Different Varieties:
3. Store Late Crops In-Ground:
4. Use Succession Planting:
Conclusion
Leeks are a must - grow crop for UK nurseryman who need a steady , reliable harvest throughout the year . By choose the right varieties , train your land well , and postdate this step - by - step planting method acting , you ’ll enjoy homegrown leeks from late summer all the way through spring .
Whether you ’re plant in rows , raised bed , or green goddess , leeks are hardy , low - alimony , and flavour - tamp down — ideal for everything from hearty stews to gourmet meals .
Top 10 Questions and Answers About Planting Leeks
1. When should I plant leeks in the UK?
Sow indoors from January to March and transplanting outdoors in May or June .
2. How deep should I plant leek seedlings?
Plant 15–20 cm late using a dibble to encourage long white stem .
3. Can I grow leeks in containers?
Yes ! habituate a bass pot and blank space industrial plant 10–15 cm aside .
4. How many leeks should I plant for a family?
Around 30–50 flora will provide a little family through winter .
5. What’s the best fertiliser for leeks?
A atomic number 7 - fat provender or worldwide - purpose fertilizer work well after transplant .
6. Do leeks need full sun?
Yes , leek grow best in full sun but will allow light shade .
7. Can I leave leeks in the ground over winter?
Yes , most change are frost - hardy and can be harvested as needed .
8. Why are my leeks thin and weedy?
They may be too crowded or underfed . Thin out and implement N - rich provender .
9. What pests affect leeks?
Leek moth , allium leaf miner , and rust are the most mutual . Use interlock and rotate crops .
10. How long does it take to grow leeks?
From semen to harvest , scallion take about 5–7 months depending on variety and condition .
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