Leeks provide a delicious winter harvest over an extended period and are not as tricky to grow as you may think.
Preparing the ground for leeks
Leeks like an open, sunny position and a rich fertile soil that is reasonably free draining. Prepare the ground by digging well, treading down and raking. Ideally organic material such as Gro-Sure Farmyard Manure should be dug into the soil in autumn for planting in spring.
Sowing Seeds
Seeds should be sown directly into pre-watered shallow rows between in March and April. Add some Growmore fertiliser a week or so before sowing for a boost of nutrients. Once the young plants are about 15cm they can be transplanted to their final cropping positions, from May onwards. Water the area before planting and then allow 20cm between plants and 45cm between rows. Make a hole with a dibber about 15cm deep and drop the young plant in. Fill the hole with water.
To ensure a long white shaft draw soil up around the plants as they develop.
Leek Pests and Diseases
Leeks are not usually troubled by pests and diseases. Rust is the most likely problem and infected plants should be destroyed.
Harvesting Leeks
Crops will be ready for harvesting between October and March and can be left in the soil until they are required for use. Try growing Edison for baby leeks or Sevilla for a long leak with great disease resistance.
