How to Grow Leeks

If you prefer a milder onion flavour to your dishes, try leeks. They have the sweetest and mildest flavour of the onion family and their fleshy, tender white stems are perfect for soups, over roasted or baked meals. They're easy to grow, too. So, take a 'leek' out of our books and grow them today.

Full sun

Regular watering

Well drained

Suitable for all climatic zones.

12-20 weeks after planting

Spring or late summer depending on your climate, but check the label for your area

How to grow leeks in a garden

Step 1

Fill starter pots or trays with Yates Seed Raising Mix. Sprinkle seeds, lightly cover, and gently water. Keep the soil moist so the seeds don't dry out.

Step 2

While the seedlings are growing, choose a sunny spot in the garden and prepare the planting area well by loosening the soil with a fork and digging in Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. Add Yates Hydrangea Pinking Liquid Lime & Dolomite if soil is acidic.

Step 3

Once seedlings have emerged, feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food. Allow seedlings to grow to about 10cm before transplanting.

Step 4

Transplant and space 20cm apart. Plant seedlings 15cm deeper to help blanch leeks. Mulch with an organic mulch, such as sugar cane or pea straw and water in well.

Step 5

Feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food to encourage healthy growth.

How to grow leeks in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot at least 300mm wide and deep. Fill with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter. Set aside until seedlings are ready to be transplanted.

Step 2

Fill starter pots or trays with Yates Seed Raising Mix. Sprinkle seeds, lightly cover, and gently water. Keep the soil moist so the seeds don't dry out.

Step 3

Once seedlings have emerged, feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food. Allow seedlings to grow to about 10cm before transplanting into the pot.

Step 4

Transplant and space 10-20cm apart. Plant seedlings 15cm deeper to help blanch leeks. Position pot in full sun and water well.

Step 5

Feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food to encourage healthy growth.

Yates varieties

Growing tips

Make sure not to plant your leeks near beans, peas, lentils or any legumes.
To blanch your leeks, you can also cover the lower stems with PVC pipe or mound soil or organic mulch around the base.