Seed Treatment (Pre-Sowing Preparation)
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Soaking:
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Soak seeds in warm water (around 80°F / 27°C) for 12–24 hours before planting.
Sowing Instructions
Indoor Sowing (Best for Early Start)
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Timing:
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Start 8–12 weeks before the last frost in your area.
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Containers:
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Use seed trays, pots, or deep containers with well-draining seed-starting mix.
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Sowing Depth:
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Plant seeds ¼ inch (6 mm) deep and lightly cover with soil.
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Spacing:
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Space seeds ½ inch (1 cm) apart in trays.
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Temperature:
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Keep soil at 60–75°F (15–24°C) for best germination.
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Watering:
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Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
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Germination Time:
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Expect germination in 7–14 days.
Outdoor Sowing (Direct Seeding Option)
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Timing:
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Sow as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring.
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In warm climates, sow in late summer for a fall/winter harvest.
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Soil Preparation:
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Work in compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.
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Sowing Depth & Spacing:
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Sow seeds ¼ inch (6 mm) deep in rows 12–18 inches apart.
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Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart when they reach 3 inches (8 cm) tall.
Growth & Care
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Transplanting:
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If started indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) tall.
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Plant in trenches and gradually fill in soil as the leeks grow for longer white stalks.
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Watering:
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Keep soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering.
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Fertilization:
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Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks for strong growth.
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Mulching:
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Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Harvesting:
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Harvest when stems reach 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter (typically 90–120 days after sowing).