Return to the Growing from Seed Forum | Post a Follow-Up

o
Leek seedlings - should I trim them?

clip this post email this post what is this?
see most clipped and recent clippings
Posted by weedlady Central OH 6 (My Page) on
Sun, Mar 23, 14 at 15:31

This is the first time I have started my own leeks from seed; have bought little pots of them at the local nursery before.

My seedlings are doing quite well, but I do not envision being able to transplant them outdoors for at least a couple more weeks because of the cold weather and very wet ground. In the meantime, they are now 5-6" tall. I know when planting onion plants that I get by mail order, I always trim the leaves back a bit before planting (as per accompanying nursery instructions) and quite soon new growth does appear.
But should I do the same with these leeks? I can move them lower so they are not touching the lights, so I am not too worried about it. Just wondering if a slight clipping would make them sturdier.

When I plant them into my beds outside, I know to plant them down in a pretty deep trench and fill in as they grow. I always get a nice long white part on my leeks.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

Follow-Up Postings:

o
RE: Leek seedlings - should I trim them?

clip this post email this post what is this?
see most clipped and recent clippings
  • Posted by digdirt 6b-7a North AR (My Page) on
    Sun, Mar 23, 14 at 19:03

Yes, just like onions.

Dave

o
RE: Leek seedlings - should I trim them?

clip this post email this post what is this?
see most clipped and recent clippings

Or not - depending on your preferences. But either way you'll get leeks. I'm not sure why you'd need 'sturdier' leeks since the long white part is what you're after, not a dumpy bulb. It's one plant which is actually better etiolated up to a point. BTW if you have a lot, pencil size they're delicious in a vinaigrette. This video implies trimming actually lowers yields.

Here is a link that might be useful: Growing leeks

o Post a Follow-Up

Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum.

    If you are a member, please log in.

    If you aren't yet a member, join now!

Return to the Growing from Seed Forum

Information about Posting

  • You must be logged in to post a message. Once you are logged in, a posting window will appear at the bottom of the messages. If you are not a member, please register for an account.
  • Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review your post, make changes and upload photos.
  • After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
  • Before posting copyrighted material, please read about Copyright and Fair Use.
  • We have a strict no-advertising policy!
  • If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
  • If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.


Learn more about in-text links on this page here