Leek Plants

Leek Plants FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Leek Plants in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Leek Plants

Leek plants should be sown indoors or in seed trays from January to April and transplanted outdoors between May and July once they are about the thickness of a pencil. For a continuous harvest, you can plant early, mid-season, and late varieties, ensuring fresh leeks throughout autumn and winter.

How to Plant Leek Plants

Leeks grow best in well-drained, fertile soil that has been enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. Choose a sunny or partially shaded site and ensure the soil is loosened before planting. To plant, make a hole about 15cm (6 inches) deep with a dibber and drop the young plant in without filling the hole back in—this allows the stem to naturally blanch as it grows. Water well after planting and keep the area weed-free to reduce competition.

How long do Leek Plants take to grow?

Leek plants typically take between 90 and 150 days to mature, depending on the variety. Early varieties can be harvested from late summer, while winter-hardy leeks take longer but can be left in the ground and harvested as needed throughout winter.

Why should I plant Leek Plants?

Leeks are a versatile and nutritious vegetable, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fibre. They add depth of flavour to soups, stews, and casseroles and are a staple ingredient in many winter dishes. Homegrown leeks are fresher, tastier, and free from chemicals compared to supermarket alternatives. Additionally, they are cold-hardy and provide fresh produce during the colder months when other crops are scarce.

Where can I plant Leek Plants?

Leeks thrive in open garden beds, raised beds, and allotments with well-drained soil. They can also be grown in deep containers, provided they have enough space to develop long, thick stems. They benefit from crop rotation, so avoid planting them in the same spot as onions or other alliums in successive years to prevent disease build-up.

Why Buy Leek Plants from Marshalls?

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