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How to Grow Leek

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Leek (Allium ampeloprasum)

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Supplies You'll Need

Seed Starting Trays Seed Starting Mix Grow Lights Heat Mat Raised Garden Bed Vegetable Garden Soil Hand Trowel Set Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Allium ampeloprasum
Category vegetable
Days to Maturity 120 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun

Water

Regular

Germination

1-7 days

Ready to Grow Leek?

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Seed Saving Guide

Moderate
Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Biennial — allow flowering in year 2. Harvest seed heads when seeds are black and ripe.

Processing

Cut seed heads into bags when most seeds are black, dry 1 week, thresh gently.

Seed Viability

Up to 2 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Leeks cross-pollinate with onions via insects. Isolate by at least a mile for truly pure seed.

Seed Storage Supplies

Seed Envelopes Mylar Storage Bags Silica Gel Packets Seed Organizer

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Leek Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Leek Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Leek? +

Start Leek seeds indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Leek take to grow? +

Leek typically matures in about 120 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Leek indoors or direct sow? +

Leek should be started indoors 10 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Leek need? +

Leek requires full sun to thrive.

How much water does Leek need? +

Leek has regular water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Leek? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Leek is rated moderate. Biennial — allow flowering in year 2. Harvest seed heads when seeds are black and ripe. Cut seed heads into bags when most seeds are black, dry 1 week, thresh gently.

How long do Leek seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Leek seeds remain viable for up to 2 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Leek seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Leek is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Leek

Leek (Allium ampeloprasum) is a popular garden vegetable. It's best started indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date, then transplanted outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost.

Expect your Leek to be ready for harvest in approximately 120 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.