Allium porrum 'Musselburgh'

Leeks are grown for their long, thick, white stems or 'shanks'. Early varieties mature from August to early winter, when the hardier dark-leafed maincrops take over until April or May. Seed may be sown direct and thinned, but most gardeners prefer to raise seedlings under glass or in a nursery bed, and then transplant them by dropping each one in a 10cm to 15cm deep hole to increase the length of the stem.

Allium porum 'Musselburgh' is a reliable mid-season leek, bearing heavy crops of short, thick stems with a good flavour and tender texture. It's a particularly hardy leek, making it a good choice for growing in colder regions areas.It shows good resistance to rust and bolting.

For best results grow Allium porum 'Musselburgh' in moist but well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade. Keep the area weed free and water well while plants become established.