How do I plant leek seeds and what else can I start now for winter eating?

[curiouscat]

Hi, I've just got some leek seeds but don't know what to do with them. Can I plant them in modules then in the ground later? Do they object to their roots being disturbed and have to go in their growing place immediately?

Also anyone else planting for a winter crop, what else can I put in but purple sprouting and leeks? We've got an allotment so space not a problem. Thanks all.

I plant my leek seeds thickly in compost in a medim sized pot, and germinate on a windowsill or greenhouse. when they have grown to above 6 inches plant out as follows :- shake out the seedlings, trim using scissors the roots to 1 inch and the tops to 6 inches. Using a dibber, or a pointed stick make a 5 inch deep hole in the soil and drop in the seedling. Dont fill in the hole. Water well, and water in dry weather. The hole will fill up in time, but allows for the leek to grow.
For winter veg, try parsnip, celeriac, turnip, kohl rabi, swede, kale, savoy cabbage, red cabbage, all normally planted earlier but not too late. For more try www.edwintucker.com seed suppliers. good luck

You can do either - put them straight into the ground in trenches, or grow them in modules. My dad grows leeks, and always starts them off in small pots first. When they're about 6" tall, he transplants them - in large holes, just as wrinklygran says.

Don't put them into freshly manured or very well-fed soil - they will be tough because rich soil encourages more leaf growth. They crop better if you put them into ground which has already had another crop in.

You could try grow winter cabbages, brussels sprouts, kale (if you like it - it's an acquired taste!), winter squash, pumpkins. Garlic can be sown in the Autumn ready for the following Summer.