How to grow thicker leeks

If your leeks stay thin, check their variety and growing conditions. Stem thickness depends on growing time, spacing, nutrients and water. Producing a longer white shaft is a different aim from growing a thicker leek.

Earthing up and trimming are different jobs

Earthing up means gently drawing soil around the lower part of the plant to exclude light and keep that section white. It does not automatically make the shaft thicker. Avoid getting soil between the leaves or damaging roots.

Do not repeatedly cut healthy leaves to make leeks grow thicker. The plant needs its foliage. Remove damaged or diseased parts when necessary and do not leave infected leaves among the plants. Trimming is not a reliable treatment for leek moth.

Water according to conditions

Avoid prolonged drying during growth, but do not saturate the soil. Check moisture below the surface and adjust watering to rain, soil and temperature. Even in winter, sheltered crops or dry weather may require attention.

Feed and space plants appropriately

Well-rotted compost improves soil structure and supplies nutrients. Add extra fertiliser only when needed and follow the product instructions. Natural fertilisers also contain nutrients, so more is not always better.

Allow the spacing recommended for your variety and intended harvest. Nettle feed is not a guaranteed defence against rust or other fungal diseases.

Growing leeks with other vegetables

Leeks and carrots can share a bed, but companion planting does not reliably exclude pests. Inspect plants, remove affected debris and consider suitable insect netting where local pest pressure warrants it.