[MOLUSC]

why do you say that? love to see the proof that it dosen't make planting out easier and initiate rapid new root growth.
worked for me for over 25 years.
[/quote]

I dont believe in trimming the roots either, why after weeks of promoting/encouraging  good root growth would you want to chop them off!
Surely you wouldnt need rapid root growth if the leek alrady has good roots.
When planting out just dib a bigger hole.....simples

Time for an experiment i think.

[Flump]

Robinson's of Mammoth veg fame transplant their leek seedlings at the "crook" stage, then again when their third leaf shows - they say it is beneficial - not sure why but I will do it later on.

ok,please tell me what the 'crook' stage is?

[Yabba]

It's where your leeks/onions look like a shepherds crook "n" after which they straighten up.

¥

[Flump]

ta

[Salmo]

thanks Salmo,being a bit thick though,why do you have to move them again in June /july?

Grow them until June/July at ground level. Better to wait until they are pencil thick and 8 inches high than plant them out too small.

With a stick, or dibber, about 2 inches in diameter make holes about 6 inches deep and 6 inches apart along the row. Drop a leek plant into each hole, do not fill the hole in, just pour water down it with a can. This will wash enough soil round the roots for them to grow. You may need to water them once more if it is hot and dry but after that just leave them to grow. The resulting leeks will have 6 inches of beautiful white stem below the ground.

Picking up on the point about trimming tops and roots before planting. If you do not trim the tops they tend to flop over and the tips touch the ground. Worms love to try and pull these into the ground and can pull the plants out. I always trim the roots. I do not think it is good for the plants to be put in the bottom of the holes with long roots all screwed up. Better to trim them short so that they grow a good root system. They usually need trimming anyway to get them into the holes. I suppose if the plants are not very good they will go straight in.

[mumofstig]

I suppose if the plants are not very good they will go straight in.

How dare you insult my leeks in this way   

[Flump]

 thanks Salmo,I think you are a bit of a leek expert  :happy:

[alibean]

I've never trimmed the roots either (although I trim the tops) and always seem to have a good crop.  Maybe it doesn't matter?

[monsta]

would planting them in bigger pots not do as i have limited window space? or are they safe to go outside?

Several to a decent sized pot "mini-forest"style you mean?  That would be fine.  They'll be happy outside (bring them in for the first few nights so they get over being transplanted, and get accustomed to outdoor temperatures during the day)

its ok i've planted them up in plant troughs and moved to a green house i have aquired the use of.