Growing Non-GMO Large American Flag Leek Vegetable Seeds
How to Grow Large American Flag Leeks from Seed
Leek is an overwintering biennial that boast a milder, less pungent variation of onion while having the same tolerances to frost, disease, and pests. Above the soil, leeks appear to be a thicker and broader onion plant without growing the bulbous root. Leek matures up to 24 inch tall and takes up only a few inches width in the garden.
Leeks are a cool hardy crop able to be sown directly in early spring or late fall. Begin indoors 10-12 weeks before final spring frost or 6-8 before the first autumn frost. Plant 2-3 seeds 1/4" deep per cell and 2-3" apart in the garden in deeply tilled, Organic, well-drained soil. Germinates in 7-14 days, thinning back to every 4-6" in the garden. Leeks have a shallow root system and require regular watering and top layer of mulch.
Large American Flag Leeks in the Vegetable Garden
Leeks are an overwintering biennial that boast a milder and less pungent variation of the onion, while having all the same tolerances to frost, disease, and pests. Above the soil, leeks appear to be a thicker, broader onion plant without growing the bulbous root. Leek matures up to 24" tall and takes up only a few inches width in the garden. Grow leeks alongside other winter favorites such as scallions, garlic, shallots, and onion for similar growing and harvesting times.
Large American Flag Leeks (Allium porrum var. ampeloprasum), is also known commonly as Scotch Flag, or Giant Musselburh is tasty vegetable in the onion family, but with a sweeter milder flavor than onions. It has large white, stems, with green leaves at the top. It likes moist soil, but shouldn't be over watered. The flavor is wonderful if extra care is taken to blanch the stalks. Will over winter in warmer climates. American Flag Leek is a biennial, grown as an annual.Leeks are great boiled, fried, baked, and steamed. Also go well in soups, stews, and stir fries. The baby leeks after thinning are great in salads. Leeks have been around since the time of ancient Egypt. Leeks are popular in many cultures.
Stems grow 10-15" long and about 2-3" in diameter. Leek seeds should be planted indoors 50 to 60 days before the last frost. Very hardy; overwinters well in most regions doing well in both southern and northern states. Leeks can also be planted directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked. Leeks like long sunny days to grow big. Leeks have few pests or diseases. Hilling your leeks will encourage longer shanks.
Harvesting Large American Flag Leek
Many varieties have a longer harvest time but some may be ready as soon as 80 days. Like asparagus spears, harvest leek stalks from beneath the soil by carefully prying them up from the roots with a gardening fork. As a relative of the onion, leeks are also eaten somewhat similarly, with the white portion of the stalk being the most flavorful and prized part of the vegetable.
About Large American Flag Leek Seeds
Originated around 1870.
Also called Giant Musselburh or Scotch Flag. Leeks date back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians. Their popularity has grown through many cultures since then.
Leeks create a tasty pearl-white bulb with huge green leaves. They have a delicate onion flavor that makes them a favorite in soups, stews and salads.
Perfect for the home gardener and market grower.
Recommended by the Following State Universities or Ag Extension Offices as a variety that performs well for their region. FL, OR, TX
