Leek

Allium ampeloprasum

Days to maturity are calculated from transplant date.

Culture
• Leeks are a frost-hardy cool season crop requiring a long growing period
• Best growth is achieved with fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0
• Plant in a trench 5 inches deep and wide, work in 1/2 cup of TSC's Complete fertilizer per 5 row feet
• Blanch to increase the length of white stem by gradually filling in the trench as the leeks grow

Direct Sowing
• Thin to the strongest plant when 4-5 inches

Transplanting
• Sow up to 10-12 seeds in a 4-6 inch pot
• If tops reach over 5 inches before transplant, cut to 3 inches
• When planting out carefully separate the seedlings and place in a shallow trench
• Fill trench around seedlings and water in well

Harvest & Storage
• Harvest anytime the leeks are 1/2 inch in diameter or larger for the best texture and flavor; leeks can be harvested at finger size, when they are milder and more tender, for fresh use in salads
• Leek tops do not die back like onion tops
• Leeks can be stored in the ground to be harvested as needed until the ground freezes. In areas where the ground does not freeze, leeks can likely be stored in the garden all winter
• Store at 36°F and 95% relative humidity