American Flag Leek can be direct-seeded or transplanted, although we recommend transplanting. For direct-seeding, plant seeds 2″ apart along the row with a row spacing of 24″. Once seedlings emerge, thin seedlings to a 6″ plant spacing along the row. American Flag Leek seeds can be planted with our Hoss Garden Seeder. We recommend using a #1 seed plate and modifying the hole size slightly to accommodate the leek variety being planted.
For transplanting, plant one seed per cell in our heavy-duty seed starting trays. Once the green stems reach 6-8″ in length and/or they can be easily pulled from the seed trays, the transplants are ready to go in the ground. Transplant leeks 6″ apart along the row with a row spacing of 24″. If drip irrigation is used, leeks may be planted on double rows with drip irrigation in the middle. We suggest burying the drip tape 3-4″ deep and planting on both sides of the tape.
Leeks are heavy feeders and will require significant nutrient inputs throughout their lifespan. We recommend feeding them with our 20-20-20 and Ammonium Sulfate fertilizers. Administer 20-20-20 shortly after transplanting. The phosphorous and potassium in the 20-20-20 fertilizer will help to promote solid root development, while the nitrogen will promote vegetative growth. Once transplants are established, we recommend side-dressing or injecting with our Ammonium Sulfate fertilizer. Side dress or inject 1 cup per 20 feet of linear row every 3-4 weeks after transplanting.
American Flag Leek Planting Information
Planting Method: transplant
When to Plant: early spring and fall
Planting Depth: 1/4"
Seed Spacing: 6"
Row Spacing: 24"
Days to Maturity: 90
Disease Resistance: None
