Leeks

Last year my leeks we attacked by some sort of insect, just when they were beginning to flourish.  I looked it up (unfortunately, I can't remember the name) and apparently this insect only tends to attack in July and August.  
So when planting the leeks out in the summer, I covered them with a fine mesh netting tunnel (see bottom of pic below) and subsequently have planted out the rest of the leek plants since the middle of September. 
So far this seems to have worked as none have been attacked.

However, I was talking to an allotment colleague today and he said that if ever this insect does attack the leeks again, he said 'don't worry, just cut of the tops of the leeks, just below where they've been attacked and they will recover in time'.  This sounds like very useful information.


So, I'm hopeful  that in the New Year we will be eating tasty home-grown leek and potato soup (with a hint of tarragon!).


Hint: before planting out leeks, top and tail them, leaving only about 2cm of root. Soak the leek roots in some water.  Make  deep holes about 6" to 9" apart with a dibber and pop in the tiny leeks (shorter roots means they're easier to plant). Then don't firm them in, but fill up the hole with water, keep them well-watered and weeded.  Easy!