Carentan
120d to harvest
Sweet, mellow Carentan leeks unfurl with a tender, buttery bite and a clean, grassy-sweet aroma that feels instantly refined. At maturity, the long, cylindrical stalks form a tightly layered, deep-green outer jacket over a pale, creamy-to-warm ivory center, with a crisp yet yielding texture that holds its character beautifully. Grow Carentan for comforting soups and braises, as well as elegant fresh slices and savory gratins—ideal when you want flavor that’s gentle, not sharp.
Crop Dates
Growing note: Zone 1b has only 61 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 120-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Frost | Jun 1st |
| Growing Approach | Protected Environment Only |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 120 |
| 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) | 35 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease commonly affects leeks (Allium porrum), and how do I manage it?
Leeks are commonly hit by leek rust (Puccinia porri) and sometimes leek moth/caterpillars. For rust, remove infected leaves and improve airflow by spacing plants; avoid overhead watering and use a copper-based fungicide if disease is spreading early. For leek moth, inspect leaves for tunnels and frass and apply a row cover immediately after planting to prevent egg-laying, then remove damaged tissue.
How can I tell when my leeks (Allium porrum) are ready to harvest?
Harvest at about 120 days when the plants have a firm, thick white-to-light-green stem and the leaves are still relatively upright rather than collapsing. Use a gentle twist-and-lift to test firmness; if the lower stalk feels crisp and substantial, it’s ready. For the best flavor, harvest before severe frost when possible, but you can leave them in the ground for a period with protection in colder weather.