Leek

Leeks are one of the few vegetables that can stand through the winter, meaning you can lift them as and when they're needed.

How to grow leeks

Sow leek seed 1cm deep in a seedbed or pots.

When seedlings are 20cm tall, transplant them by first trimming the leaf-tips and roots, then drop into holes 15cm deep (use a dibber if you have one) and 15-30cm apart. They need a sunny, sheltered site in fertile soil.

Don't fill the holes with soil but puddle them in water to help the plants settle.

Harvesting leeks

Leeks can be left in the ground until you need them or be harvested as baby leeks when they are young and juicy. Loosen with a fork before lifting.

Tips on growing leeks

• Carefully remove weeds from around the leeks and pull soil around the stems when the plants are large to exclude light (or 'blanch'), to keep them white and tender.
• Keep well watered in dry spells.
• Leeks can suffer from allium leaf miner.

Download our leek growing card here.

Thanks to Markus Spiske for this beautiful leek image.