Cook It Up With Leeks

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-112 -- More Projects »
A kissing cousin of onions, garlics, shallots and chives, leeks can be started from seed. Once they reach the diameter of a pencil, transplant them to a permanent spot in the garden. Bury them deeply and cover with a thick layer of mulch until they develop a long, white stem, which is the preferred portion of the plant.

Maybe one of the reasons few people grow leeks is their long growing season, around 120 to 150 days. They're worth the wait, though, especially when they're used to make potato-and-leek soup. So the next time leek-planting season rolls around in your area, plant a row or two.