How To Grow Leek Microgreens

<a href='https://typesofmicrogreens.com/author/admin/'>Jon Smith</a>Jon Smith
December 23, 2021

Most people have enjoyed leeks; however, many have never had the privilege of eating leek microgreens. Leek microgreens offer the delicious flavor of the leeks you've come to love, only a little bit sweeter.

Leek microgreens are members of the allium family and provide more than 80 nutrients, including vitamins A, B6, C, E, K, folate, magnesium, iron, and potassium. The omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, and flavonoids in leek microgreens along with the numerous vitamins and minerals offer a host of health benefits.

Leek microgreens will be ready for you to enjoy in about a week and a half. Leek microgreens can be used in salads, sandwiches, spring rolls, soups, and pastas. It also makes a great garnish and can be used to ramp up flavor and nutrition in smoothies, eggs, and curries.

Microgreen Profile

Leek microgreens are an excellent choice for both beginner and advanced microgreen growers. Check out our leek microgreen profile table for more information on growing leek microgreens. Within approximately two weeks, you will be enjoying homegrown leek microgreens.

AttributeProfile
FlavorMild onion flavor with hints of freshness.  
Pre-Soak (Yes/No)   No presoaking is necessary.
Color   Leek microgreens are bright green.
Germination Time   Leek microgreens require a blackout period of 4 to 6 days. Germination should occur within 3 to 4 days.
Harvest Time   Leek microgreens will be ready for harvest in approximately 10 to 12 days.
Green Thumb Level (1-5)   2 – Leek microgreens are easy to grow using our detailed growing guide.

Leek microgreens are tasty, nutritious, and easy to grow. They can be grown indoors year round for fresh flavor in all of your favorite dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are a novice microgreen gardener or have been growing microgreens for years, these frequently asked questions will provide you with the answers you may experience during planting, growing, and harvesting your leek microgreens.

Do Leek Microgreens Regrow After Harvesting?

Yes! Unlike most other microgreens, leeks will regrow after harvesting. You can expect to get two to three cuttings of leek microgreens before replanting.

How Fast Do Leek Microgreens Grow?

Leek microgreens are fast growing. You can expect a substantial harvest in about two weeks.

What Do Leek Microgreens Taste Like?

Leek microgreens have a mild onion flavor with sweet undertones.

What Health Benefits Do Leek Microgreens Offer?

Leek microgreens are packed with a host of nutrients and offer a number of health benefits, including:

  • Antioxidant Protection – The antioxidants in leek microgreens have been shown to reduce systemic inflammation, enhance the immune system, eliminate free radicals from the body, and help prevent a number of diseases, including cancer.
  • Skin and Hair Health – Leek microgreens help protect against sun damage, detoxify the skin, promote hair growth, and reduce acne outbreaks.
  • Bone Health – Leek microgreens are filled with bone healthy nutrients to strengthen and protect your bones.
  • Vision – The nutrients in leek microgreens nourish and protect your eyes while improving your vision.
  • Heart Health – Leek microgreens contain heart healthy ingredients like omega 3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation, reduce cholesterol levels, and protect against heart disease.
  • Digestive Health – The fiber in leek microgreens help improve gut motility and mobility, which helps improve digestion and reduces many digestive complaints.

Equipment Needed to Grow Leek Microgreens

Leek microgreens can be grown hydroponically or in a growing medium. Our preferred method is to grow leek microgreens in the method described below. When our easy to understand and easy to follow instructions are used, you will be rewarded with a large harvest of leek microgreens. The following equipment will help ensure your success.

Leek Microgreen Starter Kit

One of the easiest ways to get started growing microgreens is to purchase a microgreen starter kit. The Deluxe Starter Kit at True Leaf Market comes with a selection of seeds, soil, a misting bottle, and microgreen grow trays.

Specific Equipment Needed for Leek Microgreens

If you would rather purchase each piece of equipment individually, you will need:

Leek Microgreen Growing Medium

The two types of growing mediums used for leek microgreens are seed starting soil and coconut coir. Both of these growing mediums have a number of advantages and disadvantages. We recommend using coconut coir because of its ability to hold moisture, its neutral pH levels, and its ability to reduce the risk of soilborne diseases.

Coconut Coir

Coconut coir is easy to use, holds the proper amount of moisture for leek microgreens, and is a renewable resource made from the husks of coconuts.

MOTHER EARTH Coco Plus Perlite Mix - For Indoor and Outdoor Container Gardens, Provides Strong Aeration & Drainage, 70% Coconut Coir, Resists Compaction, 50 Liter
  • Mother Earth Coco + Perlite is a great alternative to potting soil as it enables gardeners to aggressively feed and not worry about over-watering
  • Use Mother Earth Coco + Perlite with indoor and outdoor container gardens
  • Achieve better aeration and drainage with a mix that incorporates 70% of the finest coconut coir and 30% perlite
  • Plant directly in Mother Earth Coco + Perlite
  • Coconut coir resists compaction and last longer in a container (vs traditional growing media)

Seed Starting Growing Medium

Another option is a seed starting growing medium. This growing medium contains everything your leek microgreens need to thrive.

Sale
FoxFarm Ocean Forest FX14000 -1.5 Cubic Foot Organic Potting Soil
  • SIZE: 38.6 quarts of FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil for your hungry plants
  • APPLICATION: Ultimate potting soil that has everything your plants need in one bag
  • CONTENTS: Blend of earthworm castings, bat guano, sea-going fish & crab meal, forest humus, moss & more
  • PH LEVELS: Ocean Forest is pH adjusted at 6.3 to 6.8 to allow for optimum fertilizer uptake
  • BENEFITS: Encourages strong branching and a sturdy, healthy growth habit and is ideal for containerized plantings

Leek Microgreen Growing Trays

Growing trays are used to house your microgreens, function as a humidity dome, and used during the blackout period of the germination process. You will need two trays without drainage holes and one tray with drainage holes. Although there are a variety of growing tray sizes, we recommend using 10 inch by 20 inch growing trays for your microgreens. This size tray will provide you with an ample amount of microgreens to enjoy.

Growing Tray with Holes  

You will need one growing tray with drainage holes for your leek microgreens. This tray will be used to hold the soil and seeds. The drainage holes in the tray serve two purposes. First, they will allow you to water your plants from the bottom. Second, they will allow any excess water to drain from the soil to reduce the risk of root rot, mildew, and other soilborne diseases.

Sale
10 Plant Growing Trays (with Drain Holes) - 20" x 10" - Perfect Garden Seed Starter Grow Trays: for Seedlings, Indoor Gardening, Growing Microgreens, Wheatgrass & More - Soil or Hydroponic
  • Quantity 10 - Durable Plastic - WITH Drain Holes
  • Perfect for hydroponic growing and seed starting
  • Approx: 21" by 11" (top measurement). 20" by 10" bottom of tray - See product description below for precise measurments
  • Accomodates 20" x 10" Sure to Grow Hydroponic Grow Pads and Micro-Mats Perfectly
  • Reusable - Great for Greenhouse, Seedlings, wheatgrass, microgreens and more.

Growing Tray without Drainage Holes –

You will also need two trays without drainage holes. One of the trays will be used as a blackout and humidity dome. The other tray will be used to hold the tray with drainage holes, allowing for bottom watering.

Sale
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes) - 20" x 10" - Perfect Garden Seed Starter Grow Trays: for Seedlings, Indoor Gardening, Growing Microgreens, Wheatgrass & More - Soil or Hydroponic
  • Quantity 10 - Durable Plastic - NO Drain Holes
  • Perfect for use as a drip tray, hydroponic growing and seed starting
  • Approx: 21" by 11" (top measurement). 20" by 10" bottom of tray - See product description below for precise measurments
  • Accomodates 20" x 10" Sure to Grow Hydroponic Grow Pads and Micro-Mats Perfectly
  • Reusable - Great for Greenhouse, Seedlings, wheatgrass, microgreens and more.

Leek Microgreen Misting Bottle

A misting bottle provides a gentle mist to water your seeds and delicate seedlings without disturbing the roots of your microgreens.

GETTON 2.0L Garden Sprayer, Hand-held Pressure Pump Sprayer Plant Mister Spray Bottle with Adjustable Nozzle and Detachable Wand for Indoor Outdoor Household Cleaning Garden Lawn Watering
  • 【Safe Pressure Valve】The garden spraying bottle equipped with a safety pressure release valve, which allows you to control the pressure of water and automatically releases the excess pressure. The pump holds a good amount of pressure while offers a place reducing fatigue while operating the equipment.
  • 【Adjustable Nozzle】The premium adjustable nozzle of this garden sprayer can be easily adjusted the intensity of the water from direct injection to fine mist spray as desired. Greater even coverage for a better performance.
  • 【Durable & Easy to Clean】The pump sprayer is manufactured from PP material for excellent durability. 2L Translucent water tank can clearly show the liquid level inside so you can add more in time. It is also convenient for cleaning.
  • 【Wide Application】This universal pressure sprayer can accommodate your daily cleaning and watering needs both indoors and outdoors . Ideal for household cleaning, watering plants and flowers, misting veggies, pet bathing, and moisturizing flowers.
  • 【Ergonomic Handle】The pump pressure sprayer comes with an ergonomic 4-finger handle that is non-slip for effortless use and convenient to be carried anywhere. A removable long wand is good to help spray more spaces or hard-to-reach places.

Leek Microgreen Light Source

Many microgreen gardeners think they do not need a grow light; however, a full spectrum LED grow light ensures your microgreens receive the light they need to grow healthy.

Sale
Barrina LED Grow Light, 144W( 6 x 24W, 800W Equivalent), 2ft T8, Full Spectrum, High Output, Linkable Design, T8 Integrated Bulb+Fixture, Plant Lights for Indoor Plants, 6-Pack
  • Full Spectrum - Barrina grow light is a great option for plants that in seedling, vegetative and flowering cycle. It provides light that plants need, especially blue and red light
  • Integrated Plant Light Chips- Compare with the lamp consisting of only "blue chips" + "red chips", integrated plant light chips have more efficiency and better color layout
  • Super Bright - Consume only 144W with 576 LEDS totally, replacing 800W general plant lights. These grow light provid a higher PPFD
  • Easy Installation - Plug and play. And could link up to 6 grow lights in a series by 48 inches connecting cords. Also, you could mount to ceiling or hang up for shelf. Saving your installation cost and time
  • Quality Assurance - 2-year unlimited warranty, easy and fast replacement is offered if any quality issue

Leek Microgreen Heating Mat (Optional)

The ideal soil temperature for germination is 75 degrees Fahrenheit. A heating mat will ensure your microgreen growing medium remains at a consistent temperature. Once the leeks have germinated, you can turn your heating mat off.

HYDGOOHO Waterproof Seedling Heat Mat for Seed Starting Propagation and Increase Germination Success 10 Inch x 20.75 Inch MET Safety Standard Certified
  • Makes a differeance in germination time, leafy greens in about 2 days and tomatoes 3-4 days for sprouts.
  • Try to use the seedling heat mat and heat mat thermostat to heat water in the seed container to increase humidity in your grow tent.
  • Using to keep a batch of fermenting beer wort at 72F is also available
  • Great affordable heating solution to starting plants from seed.
  • If you’re doing home gardening for your seasonings, go find this seedling heat mat sets.

Leek Microgreen Planting Rack (Optional)

One optional piece of equipment that we recommend, especially if you will be growing more than one tray of microgreens. The planter's rack allows you to store growing trays on multiple levels of the growing rack. Furthermore, it will allow you to attach circulation fans and grow lights easily.

Storage Shelves 2100Lbs Capacity, 6-Shelf on Casters 48" L×18" W×82" H Wire Shelving Unit Adjustable Layer Metal Rack Strong Steel for Restaurant Garage Pantry Kitchen,Black
  • IMPRESSIVE STORAGE CAPACITY - With six tiers of shelving, this unit boasts an enormous amount of space and shelving. It’s able to provide a great deal of additional storage without taking up too much space itself.
  • STURDY AND DURABLE - Constructed from heavy-duty steel wire, this shelf is durable and resistant to dirt buildup and corrosion. Each shelf has a capacity of up to 220 lbs when properly assembled, with a maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs total.
  • ADJUSTABILITY - You can adjust the height of the storage shelves in one-inch increments, creating a customized unit best suited for your specific storage needs.
  • MULTIFUNCTIONALITY - This metal shelving unit can be used virtually anywhere, in the kitchen, the bathroom, the garage, outdoor shed, and more. It’s perfect for storing tools, clothes, books, and whatever else is taking up space in your home or office. Equipped with wheels, you can transport this unit smoothly and efficiently room to room.
  • FAST, EASY ASSEMBLY: The shelving unit comes packaged ready to assemble, and doesn’t require any tools for installation. In just 15 minutes, your unit can be installed and ready to save space.

Leek Microgreen Circulation Fans (Optional)

A circulation fan moves air across the tops of your microgreens to reduce moisture on the microgreens and prevent disease.

Sale
Active Air HORF6 6-Inch Clip-On 360-Degree 5W Brushless Motor Hydroponic Grow Fan with Spring-Loaded Plastic Clip for Gardens, Black, 2 Pack
  • LONG LASTING: Fan features a 5W brushless motor that lasts longer and can be hooked up to fan speed controllers; Features a smooth and quiet operation (2 Pack)
  • CLIP-ON DESIGN: Clip-on portable fan is convenient and effective for small spaces; Can be used to help grow healthy plants or for cooling, in your garden, flood tables for airflow under foliage, small spaces, or on your office desk with a spring-loaded plastic clip that won't mar surfaces
  • AIR-FLOW: With the 6-inch adjustable-angle head that rotates 360 degrees you can direct airflow where you need it and it can also be wall-mounted to free up space
  • DURABLE: The cooling fan features 3 durable plastic blades and the easily-removable safety grills make cleaning a breeze; The motor outlasts traditional fans that use oil to lubricate rotation
  • SPECIFICATIONS: The product has a 6-foot power cord and is powered by DC 5V/5W making it energy efficient; Weight: 1 pound; Dimensions of (L x W x H): 6 x 8 x 8 inches; Quantity: 2

Leek Microgreen Seed Options

Carantan Leek Microgreens by Mountain Valley Seed Company are high yielding leek microgreens with a delightful onion zest and medium dark green leaves. These microgreens are ready for harvest in 8 to 12 days and offer a high germination rate.

Large American Flag Leek Microgreens by Mountain Valley Seed Company are long and sliver and look like miniature chives. The delicious onion flavor and green flavor are perfect in microgreen salads. These microgreens are ready for harvest in 10 to 12 days.

Giant Musselburgh Leek Microgreens by Mountain Valley Seed Company feature dark medium green leaves. The milder flavor of these leek microgreens makes them a perfect addition to egg and pasta dishes. The ideal harvest time for these microgreens is 8 to 12 days.

Step by Step Growing Guide for Leek Microgreens

Growing leek microgreens is easy when you follow our step by step instructions. Within about two weeks, you will be enjoying delicious leek microgreens.

Step 1 Prepare Your Leek Microgreens Growing Trays

Once you have gathered your supplies, it is time to prepare your microgreen grow trays. Begin by filling your growing tray with drainage holes with your growing medium. Fill to the top of your tray. Then, grab a piece of cardboard and gently press down to slightly compact your soil. Your growing medium should be level and slightly below the lip of your tray.

Moisten your growing medium by either sitting the tray in water for about 30 minutes or thoroughly wetting the soil with your misting bottle or watering can. Once the soil has absorbed plenty of water and the excess water has been allowed to drain, place the tray inside one of your trays with no drainage holes.

Step 2 Plant Your Leek Microgreen Seeds

For each 10 inch by 20 inch tray, you will need approximately 1 ounce of leek microgreen seeds. To help ensure even distribution across the entire surface of your tray, place your microgreens seeds in a shaker like this one.

Sprinkle a small amount of growing medium atop your seeds and use one of your microgreen grow trays to gently press down on the soil to ensure the seeds are nestled in the growing medium and the growing medium is even.

Step 3 Understand the Leek Microgreen Germination Process

Once you have planted your leek seeds, it is time for the germination process. During this time, seeds need weight, consistent temperature, and darkness. This can be done using the remaining grow tray.

Place the tray upside down atop your planted seeds. Then, place a heavy book, stone, or weight atop the tray. Although you may be concerned about placing a heavy weight on the microgreens, it will not hurt them. In fact, the weight will help the plant to grow strong deep roots.

Place your tray atop the heat mat on your growing rack and set the temperature to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Your leek microgreens need to be kept in complete darkness for 4 to 6 days.

During this time, you will need to check the moisture level daily. If the growing medium begins to dry out, add a small amount of water to the bottom tray and allow the growing medium to draw up the necessary moisture for 30 minutes or spray the soil with your misting bottle. Then, drain any excess water from the bottom tray.

Once at least 90 percent of the microgreen seeds have germinated and the blackout period has passed, it is time to remove the weight and lid. When you first remove the blackout lid, your microgreens will be pale white. Don't worry, once they receive an ample amount of light, they will turn a beautiful bright green, and will soon be ready for eating.

Step 4 Place Your Leek Microgreens Under Grow Lights

In order for your leek microgreens to grow consistently and straight, they will need to be exposed to light. Microgreens do best when they are placed directly under a full spectrum LED grow light.

Place your microgreen grow tray back on your planter's rack. Then, attach a grow light 12 to 18 inches from your microgreens. For best results, leave your grow lights on for 18 hours each day. This will provide the young plants with the light they need to begin producing chlorophyll.

Step 5 Turn on Your Leek Microgreen Circulation Fans

Once your microgreens have been placed under the LED grow lights, it is time to set up the circulation fans. Place a fan on one side of the tray, ensuring the airflow goes across the top of the microgreens. The air should not blow across the growing medium as it will cause the medium to dry out too quickly.

Step 6 Know When to Harvest Leek Microgreens

Knowing when you should harvest your leek microgreen is essential for high quality, delicious microgreens, harvest too early and the flavor will be lacking, harvest too late and the flavor can become bitter and the microgreens tough.

A good rule of thumb for harvesting leek microgreens is to begin harvesting leek microgreens when they reach 2 to 4 inches high. Unlike many other types of microgreens, leek microgreens will regrow after you have harvested them. This allows you to only harvest what you need and allow the plant to continue to grow.

Once you have harvested your leek microgreens, return them to the grow light and allow the micro leeks to regrow. It is important to leave at least one half of an inch of microgreen above the surface to ensure regrowth.

Harvesting Leek Microgreens

Leek microgreens are super easy to harvest. All you need is a few clean, dry paper towels and a sharp knife or pair of scissors. For best results, withhold watering your microgreens for at least 12 hours before harvesting. This will reduce the risk of mold or soggy microgreens.

When it is harvest time, place your paper towels on your work surface. Gently grasp the leek microgreens in one hand and cut them one half of an inch above the soil surface. As you cut the leeks, place the microgreens on the paper towels. Work quickly as the longer the leek microgreens are exposed to the air, the shorter their storage will be.

If you will be storing your leek microgreens, keep them away from all traces of moisture as moisture can shorten the life expectancy of microgreens. If you will be eating the leeks immediately, dunk the leeks into a bowl of cool water and swirl to remove any growing medium particles and seed hulls. Then, place them on clean, dry paper towels and allow them to dry before serving.

Storing Leek Microgreens

If handled and stored properly, your microgreens will remain fresh in your refrigerator for one to two weeks. The following steps will ensure absolute freshness.

Once you have harvested your leek microgreens, it is time to place them in an airtight storage container or bag. Place a clean, dry paper towel in the storage bag or container to absorb any excess moisture. Then, gently place the microgreens in the container and seal to prevent air from reaching the microgreens.

Once you have placed the microgreens in the storage containers, place them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. For best results, the humidity should be decreased, and the temperature should be between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Final Thoughts

Leek microgreens have a delicious onion flavor that pairs beautifully with burgers, eggs, salads, pastas, and soups. The mild onion flavor with sweet undertones is delicious when combined with other types of microgreens like radish, carrot, endive, beet, and spinach.

Leek microgreens are easy to grow as long as you have patience and ensure the soil does not become too dry during the germination and growth period. Use our detailed, easy to follow instructions to ensure success. Once you have planted your leek microgreen seeds, you should be ready to begin harvesting within a couple of weeks.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Assume all links are paid links.
How To Grow Leek Microgreens
Primary Item (H2)Sub Item 1 (H3)Sub Item 2 (H4)
Sub Item 3 (H5)
Sub Item 4 (H6)
About The Author
I have been growing microgreens for myself and others for quite some time now and I absolutely love the process.

Even more I love spreading awareness of an amazing crop that has so many nutritional benefits for our bodies which improve our overall health and wellbeing.

Jon Smith

Founder/Writer
Copyright 2021 TypesOfMicrogreens.com All Rights Reserved!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.