Leek Seeds

Leeks are a valuable vegetable with a delicious mild onion flavour, capable of cropping for over six months of the year. They are one of the most versatile of all vegetables with a wide range of garden and exhibition varieties available. Leeks produce a natural white shank and it’s possible to increase the length of the blanch by earthing up stems as they develop through the summer and autumn. This also helps keep stems tender for winter use, as leeks will stand well in the ground until required in the kitchen. Leeks prefer a rich, well-dug soil with plenty of well-rotted garden compost or manure incorporated in an open site. Their fibrous roots help improve the soil structure of your plot, just remember to rotate the growing positions of your crops in the same way as onions. Leeks have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and offer an excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium and folic acid. They’re perfect for making a delicious creamy soup, crunchy addition to fried breakfasts, caramelised into sauces and used to make salmon and leek parcels. Our other favourite recipes include sausage and leek mash pie, crab and leek pasties and leek and bacon risotto, while leek salads are a milder alternative to spring onions in summer.