Planting advice for the USA & Canada, Zone 8a

January: Do not grow.

February: Start undercover in seed trays.

March: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

April: Plant seed directly into garden.

May: Plant seed directly into garden.

June: Do not grow.

July: Start undercover in seed trays.

August: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

September: Do not grow.

October: Do not grow.

November: Do not grow.

December: Do not grow.

Space Plants: 15cm (6") apart.

Harvest In: 14-18 weeks.

Grows Best With: Carrots, Mint, Parsnips, Potatoes, Tomatillos, Tomatoes.

Avoid Growing With: Green Beans, Parsley, Sage.

Planting Leeks

Leeks should be started undercover in seed trays. Plant the seeds 0.5cm (1/4") deep and keep damp but not wet. The transplanted leeks will prefer a well-draining soil rich in organic matter, and need full sun. Once the seedlings are 15cm (6") tall, they're ready to be transplanted into the garden. Dig 2cm (1") diameter holes that are 15cm (6") deep using a stick, that are spaced 15cm (6") apart with 30cm (12") between rows. Place a seedling in each hole, and water in to cover the roots with soil.

Growing Leeks

As the leek matures, regular watering will push more soil into the hole. This keeps the bottom of the stem blanched for flavour, and the loose soil allows the leek to swell and increase in diameter as it grows.

Harvesting Leeks

Depending on the variety, leeks are ready to be harvested once the stem is 2cm (1") in diameter. Harvest by gently twisting and pulling from the garden, or digging if necessary, being careful not to damage the lower stem.

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