Giant Musselburgh

Leek

Zone 5b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Giant Musselburgh

🌱 120d to harvest Upright

Sweet, mild, and richly aromatic—Giant Musselburgh leeks unfurl into long, tender stalks with a creamy, pale core that feels silk…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 23rd
Last Frost	May 4th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 4th
Harvest Begins	Sep 1st
Harvest Ends	Oct 5th

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)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on Allium porrum (giant leek) and how do I control it?

Leek moth (Crocidomorphus/Plutella-related pests) is a common problem: larvae bore through the stalks and leave frass trails. Start with tight weed-free beds and use fine insect netting as soon as plants are established; remove and destroy heavily damaged leaves. If you see ongoing damage, apply an approved Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) product labeled for lepidopteran caterpillars and re-apply according to label intervals.

How often should I water Allium porrum during the main growing phase?

During the 60–110 day growing window (after seedlings establish), keep the soil consistently evenly moist but never waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week split into 1–2 deep sessions. Water more frequently during hot spells so the inner leaf bases don’t dry out; leeks are sensitive to irregular moisture that can lead to thin, woody stems. Check by feel: the top few inches should be moist and crumbly, not dry or soggy.

How can I tell when Giant Musselburgh leeks are ready to harvest?

Harvest when stems reach the cultivar’s expected size and the plants are firm, with a full, white-to-light-green “blanched” portion from earthing up. For Giant Musselburgh, start checking at about 120 days after sowing/transplanting; you can lift earlier for smaller sizes but wait for thicker stems for best quality. Stop harvest before heavy freezes; cut the roots cleanly and leave some leaf length for easier handling.

Sweet, mild, and richly aromatic—Giant Musselburgh leeks unfurl into long, tender stalks with a creamy, pale core that feels silky between the fingers. Expect a substantial, upright growth habit and a satisfying bite that turns beautifully mellow when roasted or simmered, making them a standout for hearty dishes and elegant sauces. A classic market-class choice for gardeners who love dependable performance and impressive size at 120 days.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For Giant Musselburgh, transplant when seedlings are pencil-thick and keep the base repeatedly earthed up to build long white shanks.