Grow large and flavorful leeks with Monstrous Carentan Seeds.
Monstrous Carentan leeks are very hardy and vigorous. Their mild flavor is sweet and enjoyable. This variety doesn't cause much problem being easy to grow and tolerant of cold.
SKU: 101375
Common Name: Leek
Botanical Name: Allium porrum
Growing Information
Grows Best In:
Full sun
Days to Germination:
10 - 14 days
Water Needs:
Average 2.5 cm (1-2") per week
Days to Maturity:
110 - 120 days
Key Features
Plant Type: Vegetable
Plant Lifecycle: Annual
Fill Weight (grams): 800 mg
Approximate Seed Count: 260-280
Planting Method: Start Indoors
Water Needs: Average 2.5 cm (1-2") per week
Landscape Use: Edible Garden
Tolerance: Cold
Flavor: Sweet & mild
Preparation Ideas: Cut the bulbs of the leeks into slices. Discard the top green portion. Add olive oil to a skillet and sautee leeks over medium-high heat for 7 to 10 minutes until they are softened. Add cream and grated cheese to sautéed leeks before serving.
Instructions
Growing Instructions:
Start leek seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost in your area. Follow the seed depth and spacing guidelines indicated below. Once all danger of frost has passed, seedlings should be hardened off before planting in their growing location. Seedlings should be transplanted according to the plant and row spacing directions below. Regularly monitor your plants and ensure that the soil remains moist, but not soggy while they establish themselves in their new environment.
Click here to read more information on planning and planting a garden.
Planting Depth: 1.3 cm (1/2")
Seed Spacing: Sow leek seeds roughly 5 cm (2") apart in rows, keeping rows approximately 45 cm (18") apart.
Plant Spacing: 15 cm (6")
Instructions for Nutrient Care:
Feed plants SUPERthrive once per week. Mix 1.2 ml (1/4 tsp) per 4L (1 gallon) of water in a watering can and apply solution to the base of the plants.
Suggestions
Growing Suggestions:
Leeks should be watered at the base of the plant rather than overhead to avoid problems.
If you want really long, white stems, you can ‘blanch’ your leeks two to three weeks before you want to harvest them by hilling soil up around the shanks to exclude light.
Young leeks harvested at finger size will be milder and tender and are great for eating fresh in salads or pestos. Larger leeks develop more flavor and texture.
To harvest, cut off dark green ends down to the light green and trim off root ends. Cut the remainder lengthwise and separate fanning the layers. Carefully wash layers to remove garden dirt and slice to add to soups and stocks.