Leek Growing Guide
Leeks are a mild-flavored allium grown for their thick, blanched white and pale green shanks. They are more cold-hardy than onions and are a staple of European winter cooking. Leeks require a long growing season and deep planting or hilling for blanching.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: loam, silt loam, sandy loam
pH range: 6 - 7 (optimal: 6.5)
Drainage: good
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- onion thrips
- allium leaf miner
- leek moth
Common Diseases
- rust
- white rot
- botrytis
- downy mildew
Use to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Plant transplants deeply in 15 cm trenches and gradually fill in soil as they grow to produce long, white blanched shanks.
Leeks can be overwintered in the ground in most climates; mulch heavily and harvest through winter as needed.
Unlike onions, leeks do not form bulbs and can be left in the ground without deteriorating, giving flexible harvest timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Leek take to grow?
Leek typically takes 120 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 10 days. The best planting season is early spring.
What soil does Leek need?
Leek grows best in loam, silt loam, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6-7. Good drainage is required.
What temperature does Leek need?
Leek grows best at 13-22°C. Frost tolerance: high. Heat tolerance: low.
What is the expected yield for Leek?
Leek yields approximately 25,000 kg/hectare under good conditions.
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