Grown for its stem-like rolled leaves, the leek is a versatile and useful vegetable that’s easy to grow in the right soil conditions. But ‘easy’ doesn’t mean low maintenance: leeks need transplanting and some earthing up. They may occupy the ground for a long time, but their big advantage is that they can be harvested over a long period – from autumn to late winter.

The best sites and soils
Leeks do best in a sunny site on any reasonable soil that doesn’t become waterlogged in winter, although the ideal soil is heavy and moisture-retentive. On drier, free-draining ground it’s important to add plenty of well-rotted organic matter to produce a good crop. Dig the planting site in autumn or winter and leave it rough in clods, then rake over before planting, and incorporate a general fertilizer.

Cultivating the crop
Planting leeks in deep holes will produce white shafts of a good length, but for even longer ones earth up by gradually piling soil around the stems during the growing season. Weed regularly, preferably using a hoe. During long, dry spells, water thoroughly but sparingly – a good soaking every 10 days will do.

At harvest time
Leeks are simple to harvest; just lift them as required when the stems are sufficiently thick, and trim the leaves and roots. ‘Baby’ leeks for salads can be pulled from early summer, although it’s more usual to wait for the stems to thicken to ensure a harvest of good-sized plants from late summer for soups, casseroles and other dishes.

Storing and cooking tips
Wash thoroughly before use by slicing in half lengthways and holding upside-down under running water so any dirt washes out easily. Take care when cooking leeks in hot oil: like garlic, they can burn easily and become bitter. Cook them gently until they are soft and translucent.

Pests and diseases
Leek rust, seen as orange pustules, is a disease that may occur in damp weather. When harvesting leeks, make sure that you throw away or burn any affected leaves and, in future, choose a resistant variety for sowing. Look for varieties that have some resistance to disease.

Related posts:

1. How to Grow Celeriac in Your Garden

2. How to Grow Beetroots in Your Garden

3. How to Grow Raspberries in Small Garden

4. Growing Squash in Your Garden

5. How to Grow Currants in Small Garden

6. How to Grow Potatoes in Your Garden

7. Garden Propagation Techniques – Drop Layering or Plunge Layering

8. How to Grow Healthy Plants in Your Vegetable Garden

9. How to Grow Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) in Your Herb Garden

10. How to Grow Strawberries in Small Garden