How to grow Leek

A comprehensive guide to growing Leek, including sun requirements, when to plant, feeding, and when to harvest.

Leek requires rich, moisture retentive soil with plenty of well rotted compost mixed in. 

Plant Leek in a full to partial sun position. 

Yes, Leek is frost tolerant. 

Plant Leek roughly 20cm apart. 

Usually planted in autumn, Leeks prefer cool to warm conditions in the range of 12-25°C

If transplanting seedlings, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn.  

 Apply an organic fertiliser throughout the season.

Leeks can be left in the ground until required and harvested throughout autumn, winter and early spring. Leeks are harvested generally when they are roughly 2.5cm in diameter, although they can be eaten at any size.  

Leeks are generally pest free, however they may be affected by Thrips, Slugs and Snails.

Diseases that affect Leek include: Allium White Rot, Onion Downy Mildew, Botrytis Leaf Blight. 

While all parts of the Leek are edible, it’s the tender white section that is preferred for cooking. 'Blanching' - is the process of denying the lower part of the stems of sunlight as they grow, this helps to increase the white section and sweeten the flavour. This is achieved by planting seedlings deeply and covering the lower stems with newspaper or a milk carton for around 2- 3 weeks before harvesting.