How do you store leeks for winter?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Help keep your leeks from wilting in storage through one of these methods, which keep your harvest fresh until early spring. Leeks are relatively easy to store, but the storage method you choose may vary depending on your location and the available space. Regardless of the techniques employed, preparation is key, so begin by cleaning and trimming the leeks at harvest. Store only undamaged leeks, with no sign of rotting or disease.
Cleaning Process
- Slice leeks lengthwise to expose soil between layers
- Rinse thoroughly under running water while separating layers
- Soak in vinegar solution for 10 minutes to remove bacteria
Trimming Technique
- Cut roots to 1 inch (2.5 cm) using sharp scissors
- Trim leaves to 6 inches (15 cm) above stem base
- Remove damaged outer leaves completely
Quality Check
- Select firm leeks without soft spots or discoloration
- Discard any with slimy outer layers or foul odor
- Dry completely before storage to prevent mold
Refrigeration. For short-term storage, refrigerate washed leeks in perforated plastic bags. Suppose you can maintain a temperature of 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C) with a humidity of approximately 90%, and continue to monitor the situation weekly for signs of condensation or softening. In that case, you can preserve the texture of the leeks by this method for about a week and a half at best.
Cold storage provides fresh leeks for months at a time. Layer leeks with roots trimmed in damp sand in wooden crates, and store them at exactly 32° F./0° C. with 90 to 95% humidity. Test sand monthly to see that it is damp (sprinkle with water if it is drying out). Root cellars can be used as stores for leeks in the same way, at slightly higher temperatures: 34° to 40° F. (1° C. to 5° C.).
Extending storage. Freezing. To freeze leeks, prepare them as you would for use. Cut into slices, blanch for 2 minutes in rapidly boiling salted water, and plunge into cold water to stop the cooking. Drain thoroughly, pack into freezer bags, seal, and remove as much air as possible by squeezing. Do this with every batch and date them.
In-ground storage of the crop is also feasible for cold-hardy cultivars; place 6 inches (15 cm) of straw mulch over the seed bed before the first freeze. Harvest what you need until the ground freezes solid. This is practical where the temperatures don't drop below −10°F (−23°C). Then apply some additional insulation over the crop if extremely low temperatures are forecast.
Check your stored leeks regularly for any signs of trouble; anything showing the slightest trace of mold or softening should be removed immediately. Make sure that temperatures do not fluctuate. If leeks shrivel or condensation forms on them, place them right, and the reward will be all-fresh leeks during the winter.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Steps for Growing Leeks
