Leek, 'Lancaster', F1 Hybrid

Germination

Direct sow Mar-April. Sow 10mm deep into a well prepared seedbed for transplanting to their final positions later on. Or sow indoors 10mm deep in modules with free draining seed compost. Propagate at 10-15°C. Germination takes 14-21 days. Once germinated grow on in cool conditions. When leeks are at least 20cm tall, acclimatise and plant out into rich well-drained soil. Plant 15 cm deep, spacing 25cm in rows 30cm apart.

Growing

Ensure planting hole is wet, allow the water to fill the hole with soil. Ensure the plants remain thoroughly watered. Pile the soil up around the plant as it grows, this will ensure blanched stems.

Cultivation

Cover with protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds or insects. Once the Leeks are well established they will require little watering. Harvest as required from autumn, but can stay in the ground over winter into spring until required. Lift by levering out of the ground with a spade or fork.