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B&Q£3.39Visit shop B&Q - Leek Seeds 'blauwegroene Winter Bandit' Hardy Winter Leek Variety 250 Seeds
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This guide is for home gardeners seeking a reliable and hardy leek variety for winter harvests. The Blauwegroene Winter Bandit offers pure white shafts and attractive blue-green leaves that bulk up quickly and stand well, providing valuable winter greens. While robust and disease-resistant, success depends on proper planting and care during colder months.
| Model Part Number | 10202068 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Marshalls Garden |
For a winter harvest, it's best to sow these seeds from late spring to early summer. This allows them enough time to mature before the coldest weather sets in.
When sowing directly, cover seeds with about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of soil. For transplanting seedlings, plant them at a depth that buries the lower white part of the stem.
As the leeks grow, gradually draw soil up around the base of the stems ('earthing up'). This process blanches the lower portion, encouraging the development of long white shafts.
Yes, Blauwegroene Winter Bandit leeks can be grown successfully in containers, provided the pots are deep enough (at least 12 inches) to accommodate their root systems.
The variety is described as winter-hardy and robust, meaning it can withstand cold temperatures and light frosts. However, in regions with severe, prolonged freezes, some protection like mulch or row covers may be beneficial.
This award is given by the Royal Horticultural Society to plants that have demonstrated outstanding excellence for garden use, indicating a high level of performance and reliability.
Ensure seeds are fresh and have been stored correctly. Check soil temperature; it should be at least 45-50°F (7-10°C) for germination. Ensure consistent moisture.
The soil may lack nutrients. Amend the soil with compost or a balanced fertilizer. Ensure adequate sunlight and consistent watering.
While resistant, extreme temperature fluctuations can still induce bolting. Ensure consistent watering and avoid stressing the plants. Harvest promptly if bolting is observed.
Remove affected leaves immediately. Improve air circulation around plants by spacing them appropriately. Avoid overhead watering if possible.
Sowing: Sow seeds indoors or directly outdoors after the last frost. For a winter harvest, aim for sowing in late spring to early summer. Leeks prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter. Loosen the soil deeply to allow for the long root development typical of leeks. A soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.
Planting: If starting indoors, transplant seedlings into the garden when they are about pencil-thick. Space plants 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart. For container growing, use pots at least 12 inches deep.
Care: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to encourage continuous growth. As the leeks grow, 'earth up' the soil around the base of the stems to blanch the white shafts. This process also provides support. Protect young plants from pests. For winter harvest, ensure plants are well-established before the coldest weather arrives. In regions with very harsh winters, consider adding a layer of mulch or row covers for extra insulation.
