LEEK - AMERICAN (BLUE) FLAG

  Organic Leek LARGE AMERICAN (BLUE) FLAG

           100 Seeds Pack    

An heirloom variety originating from 1870, the Large American Flag leek was specifically bred for resilience in cold weather. This particular variety yields leeks of exceptional quality, featuring blue-green leaves and thick white stems. To maintain the whiteness of the stems, a common practice involves blanching, achieved by mounding dirt or mulch around the base of the plants.

PLANTING&GROWING

Soaking needs to be done at least a few hours before planting, and preferably overnight. To prevent damping off when starting seeds indoors, it’s essential that you disinfect all of your pots, plastic grow trays, seed cells, and seedling tray covers before you reuse them.  

Leeks are very hardy vegetables, which in most regions will safely sit through frost and snow to be lifted as needed. You can prolong the harvest period by selecting a mix of varieties. Early season leeks are less hardy but will be ready for autumn, while mid and late season leeks will give you smooth stems for winter and spring.

Grow leeks in a sunny, open position in well-dug soil that’s had plenty of organic matter added to it.

Sow the leek seed thinly (about 2.5cm / 1in apart), as germination is usually very good, in drills about 0.5 cm (1/4 in) deep and cover the seeds with fine sifted soil.  If the seeds are properly stored they will be viable for about four years, so you can keep seeds for future use.  After covering the seeds, firm the soil down and water if dry.  Drills should be about 15 cm (6 in) apart in the permanent bed.

Make sure you water them during long dry spells and weed regularly. Leeks can remain in the ground through the winter until they are needed.

In crop rotation, leeks follow lettuce, cabbage or peas, but it is not a good idea to plant them immediately after lifting early potatoes. This is because the soil will be too loose and disturbed and leeks do best on a firm soil.

Don't grow leeks in the same place year after year as there will be an increased risk of pests and diseases.

Insects may cause cross pollination between different varieties of leek, or with wild leeks.