Did you know leeks are filled with vitamins A, C, K and folate? Now, I know what you're thinking - "Leeks? Isn't that just a fancy onion?" Yes and lucky for you, they're insanely easy to grow, even if your idea of gardening is keeping a succulent alive.
Leeks need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors, add a grow light to mimc sunlight for 12-14 hours daily.
Keep soil consistently moist. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Leeks are a cool weather crop and prefer 55-75°F, ideally 60-70°F. Plant outdoors in March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Needs cool weather for best growth.
Indoors: 8-10" wide, 10" deep, 2 gallons; Outdoors: 12" wide, 12-14" deep, 5 gallons
Leeks love rich, well-draining potting mix with organic compost and/or worming castings. Indoors, add worm castings.
Use balanced fertilizer 10-10-10 every 3-4 weeks. Organic options: compost, bone meal, blood meal. Consistent feeding supports their long growing season.
Leeks are ready for harvest 90-120 days after planting, or when the stems are 1-2 inches in diameter. Indoors, leeks can live for about 6 to 8 months; outdoors, they can live for 8 to 12 months and sometimes survive mild NYC winters.
Remove yellowing leaves to maintain plant health. Regular care ensures a steady supply of mild, sweet leeks.
Yellow Leaves: Water less. Pests (Leek Moths): Rotate crops seasonally. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Wilting: Water consistently. Diseases (Rust): Improve air circulation.
There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.
Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!