Leeks and Pot Leeks

01.08.2023 - 14:48 / gardenerstips.co.uk / hortoris

I first went to a Leek show in the North East one September about 40 years ago and the Pot Leeks on show were really something to behold. It is an art, a science and a bit of black magic that helps create a show stopper in this region renown for its prize leeks. Pot leek exhibition standards require a blanch of up to 6†which can give a circumference of 28″. Intermediates are up to 14″ blanched length and Long leeks are anything in excess of this.

For eating purposes, size is much less important than flavour. We will  concentrate on normal garden culture for flavour.

Tips on starting to grow Leeks

Canny Leek Growing is a book available from Amazon by Dan Calderbank that describs the best methods of growing leeks for culinary use or for exhibition, together with the historical

Tips on Easy Planting Out

Harvest as required many varieties can stand in the ground through early winter. Returning to pot leeks for show, some do get planted in the Autumn but.you wont find that recommended in seed catalogues! Big seeds don’t guarantee big plants but it is a start. http://www.mammothonion.co.uk/index.htm

Recommended Varieties

Allium porum Bandit F1 An outstanding variety for harvesting from winter through to spring. Leek Bandit has excellent garden performance and winter hardiness, showing good tolerance against rust and bolting. Good weight of stem without bulbing and dark leaves. The dark leaves of Leek Bandit contrast with pure white, thick stems of superb flavour.Allium porum King Richard A very early variety. Leek King Richard produces extra long, slim stems which don’t need earthing up and are ideal for slicing. From earliest sowings it is ready in June-July, and later sowings, August-September, stay ready for use until