Leek is a highly valued vegetable on a nutritional level, because it is rich in fiber and helps the microbiota. In addition, it is low in calories and we can give it many uses in the kitchen. If you have planted this vegetable in your garden, then you surely want to know how to fatten the leeks.
Let's look at the keys that can help you have a more abundant and quality harvest. Take good note!
Leek, a food that is a great ally of our health
The leek is a real treasure from a nutritional point of view, because it has many health benefits:
- Fiber source. Its high fiber content helps with digestion, is useful for fighting constipation, and allows us to feel full without needing to eat so much.
- Vitamin C. It is a good source of one of the most important vitamins. It is therefore a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and protects cells from damage.
- Minerals It is rich in potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, which are essential for the proper functioning of muscles, bones and the nervous system.
- Sulfur compounds. These compounds, among which allicin stands out, give this vegetable its characteristic smell and flavor and also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidants. The antioxidants in leeks help fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
That is to say, leek is good for our cardiovascular health, immune system, digestive health and bone health. Therefore, if you are lucky enough to have a orchard at home, you should not hesitate to plant it.
What can we do to fatten up leeks?
The first thing is to choose varieties of this vegetable that adapt well to the environmental conditions of the place where you are going to plant them and, in addition, that are known for their size and thickness.
Among the largest we can highlight:
- Giant of Bulgaria. It is one of the most popular varieties, it can reach up to 50 cm in length and weigh 200 grams.
- Elephant This variety also stands out for its large size. In addition, it is very resistant to diseases and produces an abundant harvest.
- Meteor. It is a fast-growing leek that can become very large. Very interesting as an autumn and spring crop.
- KingRichard. The large, white bulbs have a mild, sweet flavour, which is why they are highly appreciated in cooking.
- Goliath. This large variety is very resistant to diseases and is characterized by its long, fleshy bulbs.
Padding
To fatten the leeks, add a layer of soil around the base as they growThis prevents the plant from receiving sunlight and stimulates upward growth in search of light. As a result, the stem elongates and becomes white.
Regular watering
For a good development of the bulbs we have to give them regular watering. What this vegetable needs is that the soil is wet, but not waterlogged.
The frequency with which you water depends on factors such as the type of soil, the climate or the stage of development in which the plant is.
The amount of water we apply during each irrigation depends on the weather conditions, but it is best to water deeply to ensure that the water reaches the roots.
During the initial stage It is necessary to ensure that the soil is constantly moist. In the growth stage You can reduce the frequency of watering a little, but without letting the soil dry out completely. Finally, some weeks before harvest, watering is further reduced to encourage bulb thickening.
If you have a choice, the best option for this and other garden plants is drip irrigation.
Fertilizing leeks
Leek needs:
- Nitrogen. For vegetative growth. Promotes the appearance of green and vigorous leaves.
- Match. For the development of the root system and flowering.
- Potassium. Improves bulb quality and resistance to disease.
To fertilize the leek the best is the organic fertilizerCompost and manure release nutrients slowly and improve soil structure.
However, you can also use balanced chemical fertilizers, always following the manufacturer's recommendations.
If you notice nutritional deficiencies, you can use foliar fertilizers.
You can carry out fertilization:
- Before sowing. Incorporating organic fertilizer into the soil.
- During the active growth phase.
During the blanching phase, it is advisable to reduce the use of fertilizer to promote bulb development.
Spaced between leeks
If you want to obtain large, quality bulbs, it is important that each plant has enough space to grow and develop optimally.
If we do not leave enough space between the bulbs, the plants will end up competing with each other for nutrients, resulting in slower growth and smaller plants.
The ideal is to leave between 30 and 40 centimeters between rows and between 15 and 20 centimeters between plantsWith this we get:
- Greater root development. The roots grow deeper and can absorb more nutrients and water, promoting bulb fattening.
- Less competition for resources. This allows the plant to focus on its growth.
- Better quality of the bulbs. Because they have been able to access more nutrients during their development.
- Less illness. Good spacing between plants promotes air circulation and thus reduces the incidence of fungal and bacterial diseases.
- Makes care easier. If there is enough space between each plant, it is easier to access and care for them.
To fatten leeks, all we need to do is give this plant the care it needs. Leave space for it to grow, water well, apply fertilizer and use the mulching trick. In no time, you'll be enjoying quality leeks with exceptional flavor. Are you up for it?