Tadorna

Leek

Zone 2b Save Garden

🌱 110d to harvest Upright

Sweetly mild and richly aromatic, Tadorna leeks develop tender, deeply layered stalks with a clean, buttery bite. The pale shafts…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 17th
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Aug 26th
Harvest Ends	Aug 25th

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

Recommended Companions

Kaleidoscope Mix Carrot

Peppermint Stick Celery

Carola Potato

Flyaway Carrot

German Butterball Potato

Nanling Carrot

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.

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.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 30°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

For late-season shanks, start early enough that transplants establish before cold sets in, then keep soil consistently hilled/firm around the stems as they grow.