When is the leek ready for harvest?
Five to six months after Planting the leek long white shafts and dark green foliage have formed. Now is the time for the harvest.
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Summer leeks sown in spring must be taken out of the ground before the first frost and processed quickly. Winter leeks also tolerate sub-zero temperatures. In the cold season, only harvest as many stalks as you can use and leave the others in the bed.
Do not take off immediately after loosening
To harvest the leek, use one spade or a narrow rake. Pierce the implement as deep as possible next to the bars. The soil around the poles is raised using leverage so that the leek plants loosen. This is best done in the morning hours.
The leek remains in the bed for a few hours. This will reduce the nitrate content in the bars. It also makes it easier to see whether the plants are from Pests or diseases are infested.
The leek is only pulled out of the ground in the evening. The remains of the earth are shaken off and the ground is pressed down again. This prevents pests from nestling.
What should you watch out for when harvesting leeks in winter?
Winter leeks can stay in the bed until they are ready to be used in the kitchen. Do not touch frozen leek sticks when removing them from the ground. This makes them soft and mushy and loses their aroma.
Harvest tips in brief:
- Loosen the leek in the morning with a spade or hoe
- Leave in the bed for a few hours
- Pull out or cut off the leek in the evening
- Press the bottom down well.
Tips & Tricks
If you don't want to replant the leek bed immediately after harvesting, simply cut off the leeks. Small bulbs then form from which new plants emerge. The roots remaining in the soil also serve to improve the garden soil.