I inherited some leeks from my neighbor, who seems to have a magical touch with gardening. I planted them and they're still green, but I'm unsure about how to properly take care of them. Should I thin them out since they came in clumps? How do I know when it's time to harvest? What kind of growth should I expect over the summer? I've got strawberries and a raspberry bush that I think I can handle, but these leeks have me a bit stumped!
3 Answers
Definitely make sure to space out your leeks! Ideally, they should be about 6 inches apart, but I usually go a bit closer at 4 inches just to maximize space. They're tough plants, so don't stress if you need to thin them out later. As for your strawberries, remember to use acidic soil, which will help them grow better. Just remember to keep an eye on the leeks; they need proper watering for the best yield!
Growing leeks is pretty straightforward! Here’s how you can manage them: First, prepare your bed and make sure you have a shallow container of water ready. You’ll want to gently swish your leek clumps in the water to separate them, then plant each one in a hole made with a stick or pencil. Just drop them in, making sure there’s enough room for the roots. Don't compact the soil; just water them and let nature fill the gaps. They’ll thicken up over time, and you can start harvesting them once they're roughly the size you'd find at the grocery store. They’ll keep growing well into the fall!
Honestly, leeks are super easy to grow! While I’ve struggled with other crops, leeks seem to thrive without much fuss. They’re a lot less finicky than strawberries, which have to deal with various pests and critters. Just ensure they’re planted in deep holes, spaced about 15-20 cm apart, and keep them watered. They’re pretty hardy, so you can harvest them in autumn or winter. If you’re having trouble, check out the YouTube channel Grow Veg; they have great guides, including one specifically for leeks!
This is the correct answer!