Vegetable

• Crops in : 75 Days
• Ideal for : Patios

Description

A very early variety. Leek King Richard produces extra long, slim stems which don't need earthing up and are ideal for slicing. From earliest sowings it is ready in June-July, and later sowings, August-September, stay ready for use until Christmas. You can also direct sow Leek King Richard without the need to transplant, or grow closer together for delicious, succulent mini leeks.

Sowing Instructions

Leeks prefer ordinary, well drained soil in sun or semi shade and can follow early peas and potatoes. Sow seeds in early spring, outdoors in a well prepared seed bed. Sow seeds thinly 1cm (½in) deep in drills 23cm (9in) apart.

Growing Instructions

In early summer lift the seedlings carefully and plant 15x38cm (6x15in) apart, making 15cm (6in) deep holes and inserting the seedlings as far as the first leaf. Then fill the hole with water NOT SOIL. Earth up the stems as growth develops and harvest in autumn/winter.

Aftercare

To grow as mini-leeks sow as above but very thinly and don't transplant. Harvest in summer/autumn.

Nutritional Information

Leeks are high in folic acid, potassium, and Vitamins A and C. They contain sulphur-rich compounds which have been shown to thin the blood, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.