Planting and Spacing Leeks for Healthy Growth

Proper planting and spacing are essential for growing straight, tender, and flavorful leeks. Over decades of gardening experience, I’ve found that giving leeks enough room to develop and planting them at the right depth makes a huge difference in stalk size, blanching, and overall plant health. Here’s a detailed guide to planting and spacing leeks for optimal growth.

Table of Contents

1. Choosing the Right Location

Leeks prefer full sun and well-draining, fertile soil.
Avoid areas prone to waterlogging, which can stunt growth and cause disease.

2. Planting Depth

Transplant seedlings 6–8 inches deep, leaving only the top few inches exposed.
Deep planting encourages blanching and produces longer white stalks.

3. Row Spacing

Space rows 12–18 inches apart to allow easy access for weeding, hilling, and harvesting.

4. In-Row Spacing

Space individual plants 6–8 inches apart in the row for standard varieties.
For larger varieties, increase spacing to 8–10 inches.

5. Raised Beds and Tubes

Raised beds improve drainage and soil warmth, enhancing growth.
Using tubes or hilling soil around leeks also promotes blanching and straight stalks.

6. Succession Planting

Plant leeks in staggered intervals every 2–3 weeks to ensure a continuous harvest.

7. Maintenance After Planting

Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
Monitor for pests and disease, and water consistently.

Final Thoughts

Correct planting depth and spacing are crucial for healthy, productive leeks. By following these guidelines, you’ll achieve tender, long stalks and a continuous, bountiful harvest.

Leek Planting and Spacing Guide

Leek Variety	In-Row Spacing	Row Spacing	Planting Depth	Notes / Tips
Standard Varieties	6–8 inches	12–18 inches	6–8 inches deep	Ideal for most garden beds; allows easy maintenance
Large Varieties	8–10 inches	12–18 inches	6–8 inches deep	Produces thicker, longer stalks
Container Leeks	2–3 inches per pot	N/A	6–8 inches deep	Use wider pots to prevent crowding
Succession Planting	6–8 inches	12–18 inches	6–8 inches deep	Plant every 2–3 weeks for continuous harvest

✅ Gardener’s Tip: Adequate spacing improves air circulation, reduces disease risk, and encourages longer, straighter, tender leek stalks.

Leeks Growing Hub

Start here: The Ultimate Leeks Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest

Leek Basics & Varieties

Planting & Site Prep

Unique Growing Methods

Care & Maintenance

Pests & Diseases

Common Leek Pests and Diseases and How to Control Them Naturally

Harvest & Beyond

Stephen Albert

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

How to Plant and Grow Rhubarb
ByStephen Albert

Rhubarb is grown for its leaf stems (called petioles) which are thick and fleshy. The stems are colorful—cherry-red to deep red and sometimes green–and tart. They are used in jams and pies—with plenty of sugar added—and are often matched with the sweetness of strawberries. Rhubarb is a perennial vegetable that requires a dedicated growing spot…

Read More How to Plant and Grow Rhubarb
How to Harvest Leeks for Best Flavor
ByStephen Albert

Leeks are a cool-season allium prized for their sweet, mild onion flavor. Harvesting at the right time and with proper technique ensures tender stalks and peak taste. With over 30 years of hands-on leek-growing experience in raised beds and mounded rows, I’ve learned how timing and care make all the difference. Here’s how to harvest…

Read More How to Harvest Leeks for Best Flavor
Six Ways to Cook and Serve Leeks
ByStephen Albert

Leeks have a mild, sweet onion flavor that’s both delicate and savory, making them a versatile star in the kitchen. Their tender white shanks add a subtle richness to soups, stews, and sauces, while their gentle sweetness shines when roasted, grilled, or sautéed in butter. Unlike sharper onions, leeks offer a smooth, mellow taste that…

Read More Six Ways to Cook and Serve Leeks
Best Celery Varieties for Home Gardeners
ByStephen Albert

After more than 30 years of growing celery in my raised beds, I’ve learned that variety selection makes all the difference. Some celery varieties thrive in cooler climates, while others handle heat better. Certain types are bred for thick, crunchy stalks, while others are more tender and ideal for soups. Choosing the right variety will…

Read More Best Celery Varieties for Home Gardeners
The Ultimate Leeks Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest
ByStephen Albert

Leeks are grown for their thick, juicy, long stalks. They are a mild-flavored alternative to the onion. Leeks require a long growing season—up to 170 days. They grow best in cool, mild weather. Leeks are nearly a year-round garden grower. Start leeks indoors in winter for planting out in very early spring for an early…

Read More The Ultimate Leeks Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest
How to Harvest Celery for the Best Flavor and Yield
ByStephen Albert

Celery is one of my favorite garden crops, but timing and technique make a huge difference in flavor, texture, and overall yield. With over 30 years of experience growing celery in raised beds, mounds, and containers, I’ve learned that careful harvesting can prevent bitterness, maintain crispness, and extend the life of your plants. In this…

Read More How to Harvest Celery for the Best Flavor and Yield