Leeks can bolt (send up a flower stalk) when they experience optimal growing temperatures followed by a period of cold weather, which is the opposite for many flowering plants. To avoid your leek plants from bolting, the timing of planting can be adjusted to make sure they are planted after daytime temperatures are consistently above 45°F. Another reason for bolting is too much fertilizer so it is best to avoid fertilizing when the leeks are planted and while the leeks are growing.
One more thing to consider is if planting transplants, consider selecting ones that are smaller (thinner than a drinking straw) because the larger a leek plant grows, the more likely they are to produce flowers. In the future, if you see your leek plants starting to produce flower stalks, remove them as soon as possible because once they are allowed to grow and mature, it can change the flavor of the vegetable.
Hi Joanne,
Leeks can bolt (send up a flower stalk) when they experience optimal growing temperatures followed by a period of cold weather, which is the opposite for many flowering plants. To avoid your leek plants from bolting, the timing of planting can be adjusted to make sure they are planted after daytime temperatures are consistently above 45°F. Another reason for bolting is too much fertilizer so it is best to avoid fertilizing when the leeks are planted and while the leeks are growing.
One more thing to consider is if planting transplants, consider selecting ones that are smaller (thinner than a drinking straw) because the larger a leek plant grows, the more likely they are to produce flowers. In the future, if you see your leek plants starting to produce flower stalks, remove them as soon as possible because once they are allowed to grow and mature, it can change the flavor of the vegetable.
Hope this helps!