Perennial Leek growing information (2024)

FAQs

Perennial Leek growing information? ›

Growing perennial leeks is really easy. They are quite hardy, and will tolerate some neglect well. They will over Winter in most climates, with exception only of the coldest climates. The offsets will appear almost year round – though production will dip in the coldest months.

Recommended planting time: Anytime offsets are large enough to handle transplanting; avoid hot weather. Planting Depth: Plant offsets deeply (10 - 15 cm) and water well. Soil Preparation: Leeks prefer a fertile, well drained soil with a pH of 6.5 - 7.5; avoid using fresh manure.

Quick Guide to Growing Leeks

They grow well in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Space leeks 6 inches apart in an area that gets 6 or more hours of sun daily and has nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Improve native soil by mixing in several inches of aged compost or other rich organic matter.

Harvesting and Replanting

They multiply into clumps which can be harvested regularly. Harvest the thickest ones and let the smaller ones grow fatter. You can also dig up the whole clump, replant the smaller ones individually and eat the large ones.

Leeks have long, strap-like leaves and many develop a roundish bulb. This plant is a true perennial, even though it is generally referred to as a biennial. It multiplies by means of small lateral growths and often develops a roundish bulb at the base of the main growth.

The prime sowing months for leeks is March and April, either temporarily in a seedbed (for transplanting later – see below) or straight into their final position if you have space available.

Choosing the site for sowing leeks may be influenced by the fact that they are generally left in the ground to be dug as required during the winter months, and can remain in the ground for a year or more. Don't grow leeks in the same place year after year as there will be an increased risk of pests and diseases.

While there are many great companion plants for leeks, some should be avoided as they may compete for nutrients or attract pests that can harm leek growth. Plants like Brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage) and beans should be avoided as they require similar nutrients to leeks and can stunt their growth.

Leeks are related to green onions so it should be no surprise they can be regrown in the same way (and just as easily). Cut off the root and about 2" of the white part. Regrow in a jar with water reaching halfway up the leek. Leeks will take longer to grow because they are much larger than green onions.

Home-grown leeks are far superior to those bought in shops and versatile in the kitchen. They're easy to grow from seed, and if you sow at intervals from February to June, you can harvest them from late August, through winter until the following February. Follow our step-by-step guide to growing leeks from seed, below.

Can leeks stay in the ground over winter? ›

Leeks are one of the most trouble-free crops. Leeks grown in the summer can simply be left in the ground all winter, to be harvested as needed for the kitchen.

Hardiness: USDA zone 5 (w/mulching) With mulching, Perennial Leek can be grown where temperatures fall to minus 20º F.

Leeks left to grow in the spring will go to seed and can be the start of a self-perpetuating leek bed. Leeks left to flower may also produce bulblets at the base of the plants. These can be separated and used to propagate a new crop.

Think of leeks as being a bit like rhubarb. You sow them one year, but don't get full harvest until the third year. You can do this because the leek is actually a hardy perennial (“winter leeks” are especially hardy selections, some tolerating USDA zone 3!).

If you let them go, you'll get large, pale lavender, very attractive allium flowers. After that, the top will die down, and many seeds will develop from the flower heads. You can use these seeds to grow new leeks, if you like, or just let them self-sow (MANY will come up if you do this).

Leeks may be harvested as early as 60 days after seeding but generally require 100-120 days to mature. Leeks are ready to eat when the stalks are 1 inch in diameter. Leeks can be overwintered in the garden in most areas. Hill up the soil around the plants and cover them with a thick layer of mulch, leaves or soil.

Compared to crops, such as onions that are generally harvested all once, you can harvest leeks as you need them from the garden. At harvest, gently twist the leek and pull them from the garden. They can also be dug, but be careful not to damage the bulb of the leek, as it will shorten its storage life.