Lexton
90d to harvest
Sweet and quietly bold, Lexton leeks develop a tender, mellow flavor with a clean, green-sweet aroma and a lush, buttery bite. At maturity, the shanks are impressively full and upright, with crisp, fine-textured inner layers that hold their character beautifully for fresh use and elegant roasting. Grow Lexton for a garden-to-table staple that turns cool-season harvests into a steady, satisfying rhythm—ideal for soups, gratins, and savory sauces, as well as pickling for a bright, allium-forward accent.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Dec 30th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 90 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 28 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease most commonly affects Allium porrum (leek), and how do I treat it at home?
Leeks commonly suffer from leek rust (orange-brown pustules) and onion thrips; both can reduce leaf growth and leave plants looking streaky or dull. Remove and discard infected leaves early, keep airflow high by not crowding plants, and avoid overhead watering so foliage dries quickly. For thrips, use reflective mulch and consider treating young plants with insecticidal soap, reapplying according to label directions as new growth emerges.
How can I tell when Allium porrum is ready to harvest?
Harvest leeks when they reach full size around 90 days from sowing/transplanting, typically when the white shank is well-developed and firm. Look for a thick, straight stem base (the blanched portion) and healthy, green leaves; if the plant starts to feel hollow or flops easily, it’s usually past its best size. Cut at the soil line with a sharp knife and harvest before significant freezing temperatures.