Leeks are a member of the Allium genus, which also includes onions, garlic, and shallots. They have a mild, sweet, and slightly onion-like flavor, making them an ideal addition to various dishes. Leeks have been cultivated for thousands of years and are believed to have originated in Central Asia or the Mediterranean region. They were highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for their medicinal properties and culinary uses.
Leeks are biennial plants that are generally grown as annuals. They thrive in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade exposure. Unlike some other members of the Allium family, leeks do not develop bulbs; instead, they form long, thick stems with flat leaves. The edible part of the leek is the white base and light green stem, while the darker green leaves are usually discarded or used for making stock.
Leeks are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, manganese, and iron. They are also a good source of dietary fiber and have antioxidant properties. Consuming leeks regularly may help with digestion, support heart health, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
In the culinary world, leeks can be used both raw and cooked. When used raw, they can add a subtle onion flavor to salads and slaws. Cooked leeks are more commonly found in soups, stews, quiches, and risottos. One of the most famous leek-based dishes is Potage Parmentier, also known as Potato Leek Soup, which originated in France. Additionally, leeks go well with ingredients like potatoes, mushrooms, cheese, bacon, and poultry.
This is advice is most applicable to growers in the UK, you may need to adjust the timings if you live somewhere with a different climate and/or seasons.
| Month | Tasks | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| January | - | - |
| February | Sow seeds indoors, | Sow leek seeds indoors to get a head start on the growing season. |
| March | Sow seeds outdoors, Transplant indoor seedlings to a nursery bed, | Plant seedlings from indoors out into a nursery bed, or start sowing seeds directly outdoors. |
| April | - | - |
| May | Transplant seedlings from nursery bed to their final position, | Move leek seedlings from the nursery bed to their final position in well-drained soil. |
| June | - | - |
| July | Keep soil consistently moist, | Ensure soil remains consistently moist throughout the summer months for optimal growth. |
| August | Begin harvesting as needed, | Start harvesting leeks once they reach desired size. Smaller leeks tend to be more tender. |
| September | Harvest, Keep soil consistently moist, | Continue to harvest leeks and maintain consistent soil moisture. |
| October | Harvest, Apply mulch, | Harvest leeks and apply a layer of mulch to protect remaining plants from frost. |
| November | Harvest, | Harvest leeks before the ground becomes too frozen or covered in snow. |
| December | - | - |
