• Large American Flag Leek seeds packet Grand paquet de graines de poireau drapeau américain
  • American Flag Leek seeds for planting Graines de poireau drapeau américain à planter
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  • Close-up of American Flag Leek Close-up de poireau drapeau américain
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JNB Seed

Large American Flag Leek Seeds

Large American Flag Leek Seeds

$4.50 CAD
$4.50 CAD
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American Flag Leeks feature striking, straight white stems paired with long blue-green leaves, offering a mild onion flavor that elevates a variety of culinary creations from soups to salads. This resilient variety thrives in cold climates and is particularly suited for overwintering, making it a reliable choice for year-round cultivation.

Savor the delightful taste of American Flag leeks in an array of dishes, including soups, stir-fries, salads, and quiches, thanks to their distinct onion-like flavor and robust texture. With its cold tolerance and ability to produce lengthy white stems, this leek variety is well-suited for outdoor cultivation, especially during the winter months. Planting deeply or hilling seedlings ensures the development of beautiful, elongated stalks prized by home and market gardeners alike.

Renowned for its superior quality and exceptional taste, American Flag leeks have become a favorite among growers seeking flavorful additions to their culinary endeavors. The lengthy, flavorful white stalks impart a subtle yet distinctive onion essence to a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and stews. This compact and resilient plant, reaching heights of 41 centimeters, boasts grayish-green leaves and matures over a period of 120 to 155 days.

Believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region over 3,000 years ago, leeks have a rich history steeped in culinary and cultural traditions. From ancient Egypt to Greek and Roman civilizations, the leek has been celebrated for its medicinal properties and culinary versatility. In the British Isles, particularly in Wales, the leek holds a symbolic significance and is deeply ingrained in national heritage. Despite being overshadowed by its close relative, the onion, the leek has earned admiration from chefs and gardeners alike for its unique flavor profile and culinary versatility. Notably, the Giant Musselburg heirloom leeks trace their origins back to Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1834, adding to the storied legacy of this beloved vegetable.

How To Grow

Sowing: Begin planting American Flag leek seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the final frost of spring, sowing them at a depth of 1 cm in a seed tray. Maintain a temperature of 15-21 degrees Celsius. Once the seedlings reach a height of 5 cm, transplant them into individual pots. Transfer them to the garden after the last spring frost, spacing them 30-60 cm apart, with plants standing 15-30 cm tall. Dig holes spaced 30-60 cm apart and deep enough for the plant to emerge several centimeters above the soil level. Water the seedlings and backfill the holes with loose soil. For optimal growth, consider companion planting with celery, onions, or carrots.

Growing: As the leeks mature, blanch the stalks by gradually mounding soil or mulch around them. This process enhances flavor and allows the leeks to thrive beyond the first autumn frosts. Maintain consistently moist soil and apply compost or organic matter monthly to ensure vigorous growth, as leeks thrive in nutrient-rich soil.

Harvesting

Harvest leeks when they reach the desired size for consumption. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh for approximately one week. Properly mulched leeks can continue to produce throughout the winter season.

Seed Saving

Leeks require overwintering before they can produce seeds. In regions with mild winters, apply a thick layer of mulch and remove it in early spring. In areas with harsh winters, dig up the plants and trim half of the stems. Store them at 0-4 degrees Celsius with 80-90 percent humidity until spring, when they can be replanted. Allow the plants to flower and produce seeds. Harvest the seed heads when the visible leek seeds turn black. Spread the heads in a well-ventilated, dry area and allow them to dry for several weeks. Thresh the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for up to 2 years.

Extra Facts

Planting Methods: Direct sow American Flag leek seeds in well-draining soil, planting them 1 centimeter deep and spacing them 30-60 centimeters apart.

Blooming Season: Leeks typically do not bloom in the first year of growth, but they may produce flowers in their second year.

Planting Season: Sow American Flag leek seeds in early spring for a summer harvest or in late summer for a winter harvest.

Latin Name/USDA Zones: Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum. USDA Zones 4-8.

Sunlight Required/Height: Full sun to partial shade; mature leeks reach a height of approximately 30-60 centimeters.

Shelf Life After Test Date: American Flag leek seeds typically remain viable for planting for up to 2-3 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.

Seed Type: Open-pollinated seeds.

Soil Type: Leeks prefer well-draining soil, such as loam or sandy soil, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.

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