How to Grow Leeks: A StepbyStep Beginner’s Guide
How to Grow Leeks?
To grow leeks, you have several options.
You can either grow them from seeds in a seedbed or indoors, or you can purchase young plants.
Once your leeks are about 20cm (8in) tall and pencil thick, you can transplant them to their final growing site.
Before transplanting, make sure to acclimatize indoor-grown leeks to outdoor conditions by hardening them off.
Prepare the soil and water the plants well.
Create holes that are 15cm (6in) deep and 5cm (2in) across, spacing them 15-20cm (6-8in) apart for regular leeks or 10cm (4in) apart for baby leeks.
Allow 30cm (1ft) between rows.
Trim the roots of the young leeks to a length of 2.5cm (1in) and plant them in the holes.
Fill the holes repeatedly with water to settle the soil around the roots.
Alternatively, you can transplant leeks into large pots, with up to six leeks in a 40cm (16in) wide container filled with multi-purpose compost.
For mini-leeks, plant them deeply using the same method as for transplanting into the ground, spacing them 10cm (4in) apart.
Key Points:
- Options for growing leeks: from seeds in a seedbed or indoors, or purchasing young plants.
- Transplant leeks to final growing site when they are about 20cm (8in) tall and pencil thick.
- Harden off indoor-grown leeks before transplanting.
- Prepare soil and water plants well before transplanting.
- Create holes for leeks, spacing them 15-20cm (6-8in) apart for regular leeks or 10cm (4in) apart for baby leeks.
- Alternatively, transplant leeks into large pots with multi-purpose compost, spacing them 10cm (4in) apart for mini-leeks.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that leeks are one of the oldest cultivated vegetables in the world? They have been grown and enjoyed by humans for over 4,000 years, dating back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
2. While leeks are typically grown for their edible stalks, they also produce beautiful flowers. If left unharvested, the leek plant will eventually produce small, round blossoms in shades of white or pale purple.
3. Leeks have been used in various folk remedies throughout history. Ancient Greeks believed that eating leeks gave people the strength to “speak boldly,” while Romans thought that rubbing the root of a leek on one’s feet could help alleviate tiredness.
4. Did you know that leeks are closely related to onions, garlic, and shallots? These plants all belong to the same genus, Allium, and share similar characteristics and flavors.
5. In Wales, the leek is considered a national emblem and is associated with Saint David, the patron saint of Wales. As a result, the leek is often worn or displayed on Saint David’s Day, a national holiday celebrated on March 1st each year.
Choosing And Starting Leeks
Leeks are a versatile and flavorful vegetable that can be grown easily in your own garden. Before you start growing leeks, there are a few things to consider.
First, you have the option of growing leeks from seeds or buying young plants. If you choose to grow from seeds, you can start them indoors or in a seedbed outdoors. Starting leeks indoors allows for better control over their early growth stages and ensures stronger plants. If you decide to go with young plants, make sure they are healthy and about 20cm (8in) tall.
When starting leeks from seeds, sow them about 1cm (½in) deep in well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, and place the tray in a warm, sunny location. Be patient as germination may take up to two weeks. Once the seedlings have reached about 20cm (8in) in height and are pencil thick, they are ready for transplanting.
Transplanting Leeks To The Growing Site
Transplanting leeks to their final growing site is a crucial step in their development. Before doing so, choose an appropriate location that receives full sunlight and has well-drained soil. Leeks thrive in rich soil that is high in organic matter, so consider adding compost or well-rotted manure before transplanting.
To prepare the leeks for transplant, carefully remove them from their seed tray or carefully separate the plants if they were sown in a seedbed. Trim the roots of each leek to a length of 2.5cm (1in) using scissors. This will encourage the roots to grow deeper and stronger once transplanted.
Hardening Off Indoor-Grown Leeks
If you started your leeks indoors, it is essential to harden them off before transplanting them outdoors. Hardening off leeks gradually acclimatizes them to outdoor conditions and prevents shock.
Start by placing the leeks in a sheltered, shady location outside for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight and temperature fluctuations over a week.
During the hardening-off period, ensure the leeks are protected from strong winds and heavy rains. Water them regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor the leeks closely for any signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves, and make adjustments as needed.
Preparing The Soil And Watering Plants
When preparing the soil for leeks, it is important to create a fertile and well-drained growing medium. Clear the area of weeds and debris and break up the soil using a garden fork or tiller. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to provide essential nutrients for strong growth.
Before transplanting, make sure to thoroughly water the plants to ensure proper hydration. Adequate water intake is crucial for the establishment of leeks in their new environment. Additionally, watering helps settle the soil around the roots after transplanting and encourages root spread and firm anchoring of the leeks.
Digging Holes For Leek Planting
After preparing the soil and watering the plants, it’s time to dig holes for the leek planting.
- Use a dibber or trowel handle to create a row of holes that are approximately 15cm (6in) deep and 5cm (2in) wide.
- Space the holes 15-20cm (6-8in) apart to allow sufficient room for the leeks to grow.
For mini-leeks, which can be harvested at smaller sizes, space the plants closer together at 10cm (4in) apart.
- Each hole should be wide enough to accommodate the leek’s base without crowding the roots.
- Take your time and ensure that the holes are evenly spaced and aligned along the row.
- Using a dibber or trowel handle, create a row of holes that are approximately 15cm (6in) deep and 5cm (2in) wide.
- Space the holes 15-20cm (6-8in) apart to allow sufficient room for the leeks to grow.
- For mini-leeks, which can be harvested at smaller sizes, space the plants closer together at 10cm (4in) apart.
- Each hole should be wide enough to accommodate the leek’s base without crowding the roots.
- Take your time and ensure that the holes are evenly spaced and aligned along the row.
Transplanting Leeks And Settling The Soil
To transplant leeks into the holes, carefully lift each plant by the base, ensuring that the roots are intact. Place one leek in each hole, making sure it stands upright and without bending or twisting. Gently backfill the holes with soil, ensuring that the leeks are well-supported and the soil is packed firmly around the roots.
After transplanting, it is essential to water the leeks thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets. Repeatedly fill the holes with water until the soil is saturated. This will help the roots establish contact with the surrounding soil and prevent drought stress.
Alternatively, if you have limited garden space, leeks can be transplanted into large pots. Use a container that is at least 40cm (16in) wide and filled with high-quality multi-purpose compost. Plant up to six leeks per pot, ensuring they are spaced evenly to prevent overcrowding.
growing leeks can be a rewarding experience. By following these step-by-step instructions, you will be well on your way to growing healthy and flavorful leeks in your own garden. Whether you choose to grow leeks from seeds or opt for young plants, proper transplanting techniques, soil preparation, and watering practices will greatly contribute to their success. So, roll up your sleeves and embark on this leek-growing journey, and before you know it, you’ll be harvesting your very own delicious leeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to grow leeks?
The best way to grow leeks is to provide them with a suitable environment and ensure they receive ample nitrogen and consistent soil moisture. Leeks can be grown in traditional garden beds, raised beds, or tall containers, so choose the option that suits you best. When planting, remember to space the leeks 6 inches apart to allow them enough room to grow. To provide the necessary nitrogen, it is advisable to add compost to the leek bed before planting, preferably during the previous season. By following these practices, you can create an ideal growing environment for leeks and optimize their growth.
How long does it take to grow leeks?
The growth period for leeks can range from 90 to 150 days depending on the cultivar and climate conditions. For most leeks, a long growing season of about 120 to 150 days is required, along with at least eight hours of bright sunlight daily. However, some newer cultivars have been developed that reach maturity in as few as 90 days, making them more suitable for regions with shorter growing seasons like Minnesota. In northern climates, it is recommended to start leek seeds indoors in late February or March to ensure an optimal growing period.
Can you grow leeks from cuttings?
Yes, leeks can indeed be grown from cuttings. After cutting the leek above the roots and using the stem for cooking, you can soak the remaining root end in water overnight. This helps stimulate regrowth. Once the leek starts to re-shoot, it can be planted deeply, ensuring a little hill is built around the base of the plant. To provide stability, a stake can be inserted. With proper care and observation, the leek will grow again and provide a fresh supply of this tasty vegetable.
How do you get leek seeds?
To obtain leek seeds, it is necessary to let the crop mature throughout the entire growing season and select 3-5 of the strongest stalks to preserve for over-wintering. Leeks follow a biennial life cycle, meaning they grow for two years. During the second year, they will develop a seed stalk. It is crucial to protect these selected stalks during the winter, especially if you reside in a cold climate, in order to save the seeds effectively.