Start indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Transplant into 6" deep trenches; gradually fill in soil (hilling) as plants grow to blanch and lengthen the white shank. Hardy — survives frost and can overwinter in zones 6–9 for spring harvest. Slow growing but largely trouble-free. Thin to 6" apart.

Want Tomatograph to track leek for you — frost alerts, weekly reviews, and care logging included? Browse the full library or get started free.