leek

Sow seed, under cover in late winter or early spring or outside in late spring, about 1cm deep in moist but well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, preferably in full sun though they will tolerate partial shade; thin seedlings to 15cm apart, or, to get the classic white stems, lift and re-plant seedlings from spring to early summer in holes 15cm deep at 15cm spacings, and harvest from late summer or early autumn to winter; for more advice, see leeks cultivation

No pruning required

Propagate by seed sown under cover in late winter, or outside in late spring or early summer

May be susceptible to slugs and snails, leek moth, onion fly and onion thrips

May be susceptible to leek rust, onion white rot, downy mildews, foot and root rots, fungal leaf spots, and smuts