Leek Musselburgh Seeds

Allium ampeloprasum is a traditional, hardy variety of leek known for its long, tender white stems and mild, sweet flavour.

 

The genus Allium is derived from the Latin word for garlic, reflecting its close relationship to other members of the onion family, while ampeloprasum means "vinegar leek" in reference to its sharp taste when young. Musselburgh is a well-known Scottish variety, originating from the town of Musselburgh, and is celebrated for its ability to withstand colder climates and its excellent winter hardiness.

 

Reaching a height of 30-45 cm with a robust, upright growth habit, Leek Musselburgh is perfect for planting in vegetable plots, raised beds, or containers. Its thick, white shafts and vibrant green tops make it both a practical and ornamental addition to your garden.

 

This reliable, long-growing leek variety is perfect for autumn and winter harvesting, as it holds up well in frost, making it a great choice for year-round culinary use.

 

Seed Qty: 400

 

Sow: January - March (indoors) or March - April (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic to neutral pH

Height: 30 - 45 cm

Harvesting: 24 - 30 weeks after sowing

Companion Plants: Carrots, onions, peas

Avoid Planting With: Garlic, shallots

Sowing Instructions

 

Sow seeds indoors from January to March in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost. Lightly press the seeds into the surface and cover them with a thin layer of compost or vermiculite. Keep the compost moist and maintain a temperature of 15-18°C. Germination typically takes 14-21 days.

 

For outdoor sowing, wait until March to April and select a sunny, well-drained location. Plant seeds 1.5 cm deep in rows spaced 30 cm apart. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which should take around 14-21 days. Thin seedlings to about 15 cm apart to allow room for growth, and regularly mound soil around the stems as they grow to encourage the formation of tender, long white shafts.

 

Leek Musselburgh thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. It is particularly well-suited to cold climates, withstanding frost without losing its flavour. Ensure the plants are well-watered, especially during dry spells, and feed them with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season to support strong, healthy growth.

 

This traditional, reliable variety of leek is perfect for gardeners looking to grow their own leeks for winter harvests. Leek Musselburgh’s hardiness, flavour, and ease of cultivation make it a favourite for both novice and experienced gardeners.