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Thompson & Morgan Leek Mercurian Seed Packet - 75 Seeds

Thompson & Morgan Leek Mercurian Seed Packet - 75 Seeds

Tasty and incredibly nutritious Leek ‘Mercurian’ is a reliable cropper with great flavour, excelle...

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Product Information

Full details

This leek seed packet is for home gardeners seeking a reliable and nutritious vegetable for autumn and winter harvests. The key benefit is its consistent yield of straight, tender leek stems perfect for cooking, alongside excellent nutritional value. A potential caveat is the need for successive sowing and earthing up for optimal results. Key features include uniform straight white stems, upright leaves for space-saving, and a good flavour profile, making it suitable for soups, stews, and side dishes.

All features

Model Part NumberKA9950
BrandThompson & Morgan

Extended Product Information

FAQs

When is the best time to sow Leek 'Mercurian' seeds?

You can sow successively from May to July for a continuous harvest from autumn into winter.

How far apart should I plant the leek seedlings?

Space plants 23-25cm apart and rows 45cm apart for optimal growth.

What does 'earthing up' mean for leeks?

Earthing up involves drawing soil up around the base of the leek stem as it grows. This encourages the development of a longer, blanched (white and tender) stem.

Are these leeks suitable for container gardening?

Yes, their upright growth habit makes them relatively space-efficient, and they can be grown in large containers with adequate depth and good drainage.

What are the main nutritional benefits of Leek 'Mercurian'?

They are high in folic acid, potassium, pro-vitamin A, and vitamin C.

How long does germination typically take?

Germination usually takes between 14 to 21 days under optimal conditions.

Can I sow these seeds directly outside?

Yes, you can sow thinly directly outside in drills 30cm apart, covering them with 1cm of soil.

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure consistent temperature (15-20°C) and adequate moisture. Check compost quality and sowing depth. Germination can take up to 21 days.

Leeks are thin or short

Ensure plants receive adequate water and nutrients. Earthing up the stems gradually throughout the growing season is crucial for developing a longer blanched section.

Pests on leaves

Inspect plants regularly. Manual removal of pests or using organic pest control methods may be necessary. Good air circulation can help prevent some issues.

Bolting (premature flowering)

This is less common with this variety due to its non-bulbing nature, but can be caused by stress from inconsistent watering or sudden temperature fluctuations. Ensure steady growing conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High nutritional content (folic acid, potassium, vitamins A & C).
  • Produces straight, tender white stems without basal bulbing.
  • Upright leaf growth conserves garden space.
  • Suitable for autumn and winter harvests.
  • Good flavour profile for various dishes.
  • Consistent and reliable yields.

Cons

  • Requires successive sowing for an extended harvest.
  • Needs earthing up during the growing season to blanch stems.
  • Germination can take 14-21 days, requiring patience.
  • Results may vary based on growing conditions.
  • Requires specific spacing for optimal growth.

Setup, Compatibility & Care Instructions

Sowing Indoors:

  1. Sow 4-5 seeds in 5cm pots or vending cups filled with good quality seed compost.
  2. Cover seeds with 6mm of vermiculite or compost.
  3. Maintain a temperature of 15-20°C until germination (14-21 days).
  4. Once germinated, grow seedlings on in cool conditions.

Sowing Outdoors:

  1. Prepare a seedbed with a fine tilth.
  2. Sow thinly directly outside in drills 30cm apart.
  3. Cover seeds with 1cm of soil.

Transplanting:

  1. Lift seedlings when large enough to handle.
  2. Transplant from mid-June to mid-July.
  3. Space plants 23-25cm apart and rows 45cm apart.
  4. Use a trowel or dibber for planting and water in thoroughly.

Care:

  • Keep plants well-watered, especially during dry spells.
  • Earth up the stems gradually during the growing season to increase the length of the blanched white stem.

Compatibility:

This variety is suitable for most garden soil types in a full sun position. It grows to a height of up to 45cm and spreads up to 30cm when fully established.

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