Description

The ‘Porro Lungo Della Riviera’ Leek is a vigorous and robust variety primarily grown for a late autumn and winter harvest. It is a reliable choice, particularly noted for its ability to produce a highly prized, long, white stem.

Appearance: The plant has semi-erect, dark green foliage and develops a straight, cylindrical stem without excessive bulging at the base.

Hardiness: This leek is well-known for its rusticity (hardiness) and good resistance to cold and mild frosts, making it perfectly suited for the cooler Maltese winter.

Culinary Use: Leeks are fundamental in Mediterranean and European cooking. Their mild, sweet flavour is ideal for:
– Soups (e.g., Vichyssoise or traditional Maltese winter broth).
– Braising and sautéing.
– Tarts, quiches, and gratins.

Growing Guide: Leeks have a long growing season and require specific planting techniques to achieve a long, white, tender stem.

When to Plant: Leeks require a long time to mature. Transplanting in late spring to early summer (April–June) allows the plants to establish and mature during the mild autumn and be ready for harvest throughout the winter (October–January).

Location/Sun: Requires a position in full sun.

Soil: Leeks demand deep, fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the bed by digging deep and incorporating plenty of compost or well-rotted manure.

The “Blanching” Trick: To produce the long white stem that leeks are known for, you must plant them deep and continuously cover them with soil as they grow (a process called blanching):

Preparation: Dig a deep trench (15–20 cm deep).

Transplant: Place the seedling at the bottom of the trench.

Hilling: As the leek grows, gradually fill the trench and pile soil up around the stem. This blocks light and keeps the stem white and tender.

Spacing:
In-row spacing: 5–15 cm (2–6 inches).
Row spacing: 30–50 cm (12–20 inches).

Watering: Leeks are heavy drinkers. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells in late spring and summer, to ensure continuous growth and prevent the stems from becoming woody.

Feeding: As heavy feeders, leeks benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertiliser mixed into the soil at planting and a nitrogen side-dressing halfway through the growing season.

Harvesting: Leeks can be harvested from October to January when the stem has reached a good diameter (typically the size of a cigarette to a small soda can). Dig them up carefully with a fork to avoid damaging the stem. They can be left in the ground and harvested as needed throughout the cool season.

Why Buy This Seedling? The ‘Lungo Della Riviera’ is a proven, cold-hardy leek variety, ensuring a high-quality, generous harvest of long, tender stems throughout the cold months in Malta, perfect for all your winter culinary needs.