I've got a bunch of leeks that I grew in a plastic pot last year, but I never got around to planting them in the ground. They've been sitting in the pot and did slow down over the winter, but they still seem healthy and are about as thick as a pencil. I'm curious if it's worth planting them out now and if they'll grow well later in the year. I've also been picking leeks from last year's crop that are doing well again now that the weather is improving. What do you think?
2 Answers
It’s definitely worth a shot! Ideally, leeks should be planted out in late summer for a winter or early spring harvest, but getting them in the ground now can still be beneficial. They might not bulk up as much, but you can eat them as they are; I often use smaller leeks like spring onions! Just a heads up, they might bolt once it warms up, but you might as well try!
This is exactly what I would have said!
Go ahead and plant them! They might go to seed quickly, though. If they do start flowering, you can cover the seed head with a brown paper bag and cut it off about 15 cm below. Hang it up to dry, and you'll have seeds for next year. Waste not, want not!
Thanks for the advice! I just checked my leek packet and it says these are for autumn planting, so I’ll get them in the ground in a few days and see how they do.