Leeks provide a delicious winter harvest over an extended period and are not as tricky to grow as you may think.
Try growing the variety Krypton a compact leek great for smaller gardens that has excellent disease resistance.
See below for our comprehensive guide.
Step 1
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, ready for planting the following spring.
Step 2
Seeds should be sown directly into pre-watered shallow rows between March and April.
Add some Growmore Fertiliser a week or so before sowing for a welcome boost of nutrients.
Step 3
Once the plants are about 15cm (6 inches), they can be transplanted to allow more space between each plant. This can be done from May onwards.
Water the area before planting and then allow 20cm (8 inches) between each plant and 45cm (18 inches) between rows.
Make a hole with a dibber about 15cm (6 inches) 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.
Leeks are not usually troubled by pests. Rust can be a problem and any plant showing symptoms should be destroyed.
Step 4
Harvest your leeks between October and March. They can be left in the soil until they are required for use.
