THE LEEK. 117 



in great numbers. The plant, when full grown, much re- 

 sembles Avhat are commonly known as " Scallious ; " the 

 lower, blanched portion being the part eaten. This varies in 

 length from four to eight inches, and in diameter from less 

 than an inch to more than three inches. The leaves are 

 long, narrow, smooth, and pointed ; and spread in opposite 

 directions, somewhat in the form of a fan. The flower-stem 

 proceeds from the centre of this collection of leaves, and is 

 about four feet in height. The flowers are white, with a 

 stripe of red, and are produced in terminal, globular groups, 

 or umbels ; the seeds are black, irregular, but somewhat 

 triangular in form, and, with the exception of their smaller 

 size, are similar to those of the onion. About twelve thou- 

 sand seeds are contained in an ounce ; and they retain their 

 vitality two years. 



Soil. Sowing, and Cultivation. The Leek is very hardy, 

 and easily cultivated. It succeeds best in a light but well- 

 enriched soil. When fine leeks are desired, it can hardly b3 

 made too rich. It should also be thoroughly spaded over, 

 and well pulverized to the depth of at least twelve inches. 

 The seed should be sown in April, at the bottom of drills 

 made six or eight inches deep, and eighteen inches asunder. 

 Sow the seeds thinly, cover half an inch deep, and thin the 

 young plants to nine inches distant in the drills. As the 

 plants increase in size, draw the earth gradually into the 

 drills, and around the stems of the leeks, until the drills are 

 filled. By this process the bulbs are blanched, and rendered 

 tender and mild flavored. The seeds are sometimes sown 

 broadcast, and in July transplanted to trenches, and subse- 

 quently cultivated as before directed. The plants are also 

 sometimes set on the surface, and afterwards earthed up to 

 the height of six or eight inches in the process of cultivation. 

 In October the leeks will be suitable for use ; and, until the 

 closing-up of the ground, may be drawn from time to time 



