King Richard Leek
Allium porrum
AL-ee-um POR-um
Edibles: Bulb
Min. Temp
Hardy: 28°
Leeks' mild but rich onion flavor and cold tolerance make them a favorite in home kitchens and gardens. This onion relative has compact stems that thicken but do not form bulbs like onions. 'King Richard' produces extra long white stems early. Enjoy fresh, grilled, sautéed, and added to soups and stews. For baby leeks, plant closely (40 seeds/ft.) and harvest at finger size.
Appearance
Summer Foliage
Blue-Green
Fall Foliage
Green
Blooming Time
Early Summer - Early Summer
Habit
Upright
Height
18–30 in
Spread
6–12 in
Form
Bulb
Characteristics
Type
Heirloom
Safety
Edible Parts
Growth Rate
Moderate
Traits
Pest Control
Tolerance/Resistance
Cold Hardy
Attracts
Attracts Beneficial Insects
Uses/Placement
Culinary
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun: 8-12 hrs
Soil Texture
Loamy
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil Moisture
Average
Soil PH
Slightly Acidic: 6.0-6.5
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
PH Correction
High pH can reduce nutrient uptake
Soil Amendment(s)
Compost
Fertilizer
Heavy Feeder
Fertilizer Formula
Rooting & Blooming
Fertilizer Timing
Pre-Fruiting
Micronutrients
Sulfur (S)
Care
Care Level
Low
Behavior and Propagation
Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Wind Pollinated
Propagation Licensing
Trademarked cultivar
Division Timing
Do Not Divide
Fruit and Pollination
Days to Harvest
90 Days
Fruit Size
Medium
Fruit Characteristics
Mild
Ploidy
Diploid