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Produce => Edible Plants => Topic started by: persephone on May 25, 2008, 17:27:31

Title: Leeky question
Post by: persephone on May 25, 2008, 17:27:31
Our very old leeks which we planted last year are still in the ground, and now seem to be producing some flowery type things. I presume these are a kind of seed head? Has anyone ever tried to save leek seed, and if so how did you go about it?

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Title: Re: Leeky question
Post by: GI JANE on May 25, 2008, 18:14:55
Keep a close eye on the flower head.Once it has flowered it will start to dry out.I remove it from the leek and place it in a paper bag to dry out, then the small black seed can be separated and stored for next year.

make sure that the old leek wasn't an F1 variety or you may be wasting your time.
Title: Re: Leeky question
Post by: saddad on May 26, 2008, 11:28:52
They will still be leeks, but may not be much good, if you save from an F1.. they will be like one of the parents..  ;D
Title: Re: Leeky question
Post by: PurpleHeather on May 26, 2008, 12:29:50
Jane is correct, if you are just doing it for fun go ahead but lidl sell leek seeds for 29p a pack and it is not worth the bother.

I wish I had the space to let leeks go to seed, both the allotment, garden and greenhouses are all full.
Title: Re: Leeky question
Post by: grannyjanny on May 26, 2008, 20:26:47
Is there still time to plant leeks.
Janet.
Title: Re: Leeky question
Post by: PurpleHeather on May 26, 2008, 20:34:01
Quote from: grannyjanny on May 26, 2008, 20:26:47
Is there still time to plant leeks.
Janet.

As seeds are cheap, I would try. If nothing else you will certainly get some tiny ones which are actually very good to eat raw or cooked.

You can plant out when everything else has been harvested.

Use over winter like 'spring onions' or chives.

Cheese and leek sandwiches are lovely