Winter leek
The leek is a herbaceous plant of our gardens belonging to the Amaryllidacea family. Very appreciated in the kitchen, it goes wonderfully with all kinds of dishes. In soups, quiches, fondues, vinaigrettes or au gratin, it can be enjoyed by the whole family. It is very easy to grow at home in all seasons. It is possible to plant different varieties such as the "Bleu de Solaise", the "Jaune Gros du Poitou", the "Poireau de vigne", as well as the "poireau perpétuel".
As soon as the soil has warmed up (above 10°C), it is time to sow. The calendar extends from 15 January to mid-September (depending on the variety). In the open ground and at a depth of 1 cm, a seed is sown every centimetre or so and then covered with potting soil. Once they are as big as a pencil, they are transplanted to the place in the garden where they will finish their growth. Leeks are not a demanding vegetable, but they do appreciate a place in the sun and rich soil (with compost).
Between sowing and harvesting (a long period of about 8 months), a few essential tasks need to be carried out, such as ridging the vegetables to allow the spawn to develop. The soil must remain humid, but not soaked. In hot weather, it will be necessary to water and perhaps even add mulch at the foot to keep freshness.
Winter leek
- Type : Vegetables
- Subtype : Root vegetables
- Botanical family : Liliaceae
Characteristics
- Exposure : Sun
- Hardiness : Frost resistant
- Culture reserved for experienced gardeners (difficulty : 3/3)
Sowing & planting
- Sowing depth : 1 cm
- Plant spacing : 10 cm
- Row spacing : 30 cm
- Emergence time : 15 days
- Emergence temperature : 12 °C
- From sowing to harvesting : 180 days
- Seed storage : 3 years