This plant belongs to the same class as does the onion, but requires
somewhat different treatment. Leeks can be grown on any good garden
soil and are usually sown in a shallow trench. The plants should be
thinned to stand about 4 inches apart in the row and the cultivation
should be similar to that for onions. After the plants have attained
almost full size the earth is drawn around them to the height of 6 or
8 inches to blanch the fleshy stem. The leek does not form a true bulb
like the onion, but the stem is uniformly thick throughout. Leeks are
marketed in bunches like young onions, and they may be stored the same
as celery for winter. Leeks are used for flavoring purposes and are
boiled and served with a cream dressing the same as young onions.--(N.
Car. E. S. 132; La. E. S. 90; F. B. 255.)