Leek, King Richard

King Richard is a fast-growing leek (75 days!) perfect for grilling with its long, slender white shanks. Unlike traditional leeks that take 120+ days, this early variety gives you tender, mild leeks by mid-summer—just plant them 6 inches deep for maximum blanching.

Leek: Elevate your culinary creations with the refined, mild sophistication of leeks. These onion-family stalwarts are grown for their thick, non-bulbing cylinders of tightly wrapped leaves, which develop sweet, tender white shanks through careful, progressive hilling (blanching). Leeks are exceptionally cold-hardy, often overwintering in the garden, and their full, delicious flavor is enhanced by a light frost, offering a great payoff for patient gardeners.

• Growing Tips: Transplant in spring 4-6 weeks before the last frost, spacing 6 inches apart; progressively hill soil around the stems as they grow to blanch and lengthen the usable white portion.

• Sun Requirements: Full sun (6 hours minimum).

• Preferred Soil: Rich, well-drained, loose soil with consistent moisture; they are heavy feeders.

• Harvest Details: Harvest when shanks reach 1-1.5 inches in diameter, typically 90-120 days after transplanting; they can remain in the ground through winter in many areas; flavor development is enhanced after a light frost.