Tadorna

Leek

110d to harvest

Sweetly mild and richly aromatic, Tadorna leeks develop tender, deeply layered stalks with a clean, buttery bite. The pale shafts are smooth and firm, building a satisfying crunch that stays graceful through cool-season growth. Ideal for roasting, braising, and silky sauces, Tadorna is a garden favorite for slow, warming flavors and elegant, long-season harvests.

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	Jan 19th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	110
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	30
Harden Off (days)	6

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Allium porrum (leek) in home gardens, and how do I control it?

Leeks commonly suffer from onion/garlic-like pests such as leek moth (and sometimes maggots) that tunnel in leaves and weaken plants. Check plants weekly and remove infested leaves early; use fine row cover over transplants/young leeks to block egg-laying, and remove badly damaged plants to prevent spread.

How often should I water Allium porrum during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level do they need?

During the main growth period (after establishment until bulking), keep the soil consistently evenly moist—about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, adjusted for rainfall and heat. Water deeply rather than lightly, and avoid letting the soil swing from dry to waterlogged because leeks grow poorly and can split or become less robust.

How can I tell when Allium porrum (leeks) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants reach the expected size and the edible “white shank” is thick enough for your preference, typically around 110 days after sowing/transplanting. A good home signal is firm, well-blanched stems with leaves that are no longer rapidly expanding; lift with a fork before heavy cold, especially if you see yellowing or lodging.