Skip to content
Leek plant growing in a garden

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Growing Leek

Leeks are cold-hardy slow-growing vegetables that can be harvested well into autumn and even winter.

Quick Answer: Leek grows in Zones 3a–9b, taking 100–150 days to harvest.
🌡️ Zones 3a–9b ☀️ Full Sun 💧 Moderate Water 🔧 Intermediate 🪴 Container OK (5+ gal) ❄️ Frost Tolerant 🐾 Pet Safe

Can You Grow Leek in Your Area?

Growing Tips

Start indoors in late winter — leeks need a very long season. Transplant deeply to blanch stems. Harvest after first frosts — cold improves flavour. Very cold-hardy surviving to -10°C.

Where Does Leek Grow?

Leek is suited to Zones 3a–9b. Here are some areas where it thrives:

✅ Zone 3a ✅ Zone 3b ✅ Zone 4a ✅ Zone 4b ✅ Zone 5a ✅ Zone 5b ✅ Zone 6a ✅ Zone 6b ✅ Zone 7a ✅ Zone 7b ✅ Zone 8a ✅ Zone 8b
Won't grow outdoors in: very cold zones (below Zone 3a) or very warm zones (above Zone 9b). Leeks need a long growing season (100-150 days) — challenging in very short-season zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Leek grows in USDA Zones 3a–9b.
Leek needs moderate care.
Yes — use a 5+ gallon pot.
Leek is safe for dogs and safe for cats.