These leeks have long, flavorful, white stalks that offer a mild onion taste. Their greenish-gray leaves can reach a height of 16".
Start your leek seeds indoors 4 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost by sowing them ¼'' deep in a shallow tray. When the seedlings reach a height of about 2'', you can transplant them into deeper pots. After hardening them off, transplant them into the garden about 1 week after the last frost in a rich soil and full sun. At this point, the plants should be about 6 to 12'' tall, and place them about 1 foot apart. Dig holes deep enough to bury more than half of the plant.
As leeks mature, gardeners blanch them by hilling soil or mulch around the leeks. This technique enhances the flavor of leeks and allows them to grow well after the first fall frosts. Apply compost once a month, as leeks thrive in very rich soil.
Harvest them as soon as they reach a desirable size. They will keep for about a week in the refrigerator. If well mulched, leeks will survive through the winter.
