Leeks

Leeks

August 29, 2024

Introduction

Did you know leeks are filled with vitamins A, C, K and even folate? Now, I know what you're thinking - "Leeks? Isn't that just a fancy onion?" Well, yes, they're the sophisticated, cultured cousin of the onion, with a flavor that's both delicate and bold. And lucky for you, they're insanely easy to grow, even if your idea of gardening is keeping a succulent alive.

The What

Leeks are part of the onion family, known for their long, white stems and mild, sweet flavor. Unlike their onion relatives, leeks develop succulent stems instead of bulbs. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and folate, leeks are a nutritious addition to your home garden. They can be used in soups, stews, and salads, adding a subtle, aromatic flavor to various dishes. Ideal for beginners, leeks can be grown from seeds or transplants, thriving in well-drained, fertile soil​.

The Why

Leeks are well-suited for container gardening on balconies, rooftops, and terraces. They tolerate cold climates and can even improve in flavor after frost, making them ideal for year-round cultivation​. Leeks can be intercropped with carrots, lettuce, and strawberries, optimizing space and boosting garden productivity. Starting your own leek garden not only yields fresh, homegrown produce but also supports sustainable living in urban environments​. Growing your own food is a simple pleasure that brings New Yorks back to the present moment.

Sunlight Requirements

Leeks need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Not suitable for indoor growing; best grown outdoors in deep pots or garden beds.

Water Requirements

Keep soil consistently moist. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.

Temperature Tolerance

Leeks are a cool weather crop and prefer 55-75°F, ideally 60-70°F. Plant outdoors in March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Needs cool weather for best growth.

Container Size

Indoors: 8-10" wide, 10" deep, 2 gallons; Outdoors: 12" wide, 12-14" deep, 5 gallons

Best Soil Mix

Leeks love rich, well-draining potting mix with compost from kitchen scraps or well-rotted manure.

How to Add Fertilizer

Use balanced fertilizer 10-10-10 every 3-4 weeks. Organic options: compost, bone meal, blood meal. Consistent feeding supports their long growing season.

Growth Duration

Leeks are ready for harvest 90-120 days after planting, or when the stems are 1-2 inches in diameter. Hill soil around stems to blanch them.

How To Trim

Remove yellowing leaves to maintain plant health. Regular care ensures a steady supply of mild, sweet leeks.

Growing Challenges

Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, moderate watering. Pests (Leek Moths): Use row covers, rotate crops. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Wilting: Water consistently, avoid waterlogging. Diseases (Rust): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.

Interesting Facts

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Blog
Leeks

Leeks

Did you know leeks are filled with vitamins A, C, K and even folate? Now, I know what you're thinking - "Leeks? Isn't that just a fancy onion?" Well, yes, they're the sophisticated, cultured cousin of the onion, with a flavor that's both delicate and bold. And lucky for you, they're insanely easy to grow, even if your idea of gardening is keeping a succulent alive.

Leeks

Here are the essential Leeks basics you need.

Sunlight Requirements

Leeks need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Not suitable for indoor growing; best grown outdoors in deep pots or garden beds.

Water Requirements

Keep soil consistently moist. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.

Temperature Tolerance

Leeks are a cool weather crop and prefer 55-75°F, ideally 60-70°F. Plant outdoors in March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Needs cool weather for best growth.

Container Size

Indoors: 8-10" wide, 10" deep, 2 gallons; Outdoors: 12" wide, 12-14" deep, 5 gallons

Best Soil Mix

Leeks love rich, well-draining potting mix with compost from kitchen scraps or well-rotted manure.

Fertilizing

Use balanced fertilizer 10-10-10 every 3-4 weeks. Organic options: compost, bone meal, blood meal. Consistent feeding supports their long growing season.

Growth Duration

Leeks are ready for harvest 90-120 days after planting, or when the stems are 1-2 inches in diameter. Hill soil around stems to blanch them.

How To Trim

Remove yellowing leaves to maintain plant health. Regular care ensures a steady supply of mild, sweet leeks.

Growing Challenges

Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, moderate watering. Pests (Leek Moths): Use row covers, rotate crops. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Wilting: Water consistently, avoid waterlogging. Diseases (Rust): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.

The Many Varieties of Leeks

There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.

You can get a variety pack with 8 types of basil here.

Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!

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