Leeks are one of those vegetables that take a little longer to ripen. After many weeks of tending to the plants after sowing, the time for harvest has finally come. It starts in August or October!

When are leeks ready to harvest?

Five to six months after planting the leek, long white stems and dark green foliage have formed. Now is the time for harvest.

Summer leeks that have been sown in spring must be pulled out of the ground and processed quickly before the first frost. Winter leeks can also tolerate sub-zero temperatures. During the cold season, harvest only as many stalks as you can use and leave the others in the bed.

Do not take off immediately after loosening

To harvest the leeks, use a spade or narrow rake. Stick the implement as low as possible next to the poles. Leverage lifts the soil around the poles so that the leek plants loosen up. This is best done in the morning hours.

The leek stays in the bed for a few more hours. This reduces the nitrate content in the sticks. In addition, it is easier to see whether the plants are infested with pests or diseases.

Only in the evening are the leeks pulled completely out of the ground. The remains of earth are shaken off and the ground is pressed down again. This prevents pests from settling in.

What should be considered when harvesting leeks in winter?

Winter leeks can remain in the bed until they are ready to be used in the kitchen. Do not touch frozen leeks when removing them from the ground. As a result, they become soft and mushy and lose their flavor.

Harvest tips in brief:

  • In the morning, loosen the leeks with a spade or hoe
  • Leave in the bed for a few hours
  • Pull out or cut off the leeks in the evening
  • Press down well.

tips and tricks

If the leek bed is not to be planted again immediately after the harvest, simply cut off the leeks. Small bulbs then form, from which new plants emerge. The roots remaining in the ground are also used to improve the garden soil.

Category:

Vegetable garden