Leek

(Lycopersicon esculentum )

A popular crimson red medium tomato with great taste that tolerates low night temperatures, so it is ideal for cooler area. A Russian heirloom that is an early producer. A tough and vigorous producer that needs staking.

An attractive cultivar medium sized, scarlet red fruit that is full of flavour. Tolerant of cool night temperatures and ideal for cool climate gardens

Flavours/Food Partners

A rich flavored tomato that partners well with Latin herbs like garlic, oregano, marjoram, rosemary and thyme. Use with any good salad vegetable, Nasturtium flowers and mixed fresh herbs to make an attractive and tasty salad.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

Like all tomatoes, Red Russian is high in the cancer fighting agent, Lycopene and also Vitamin C. For a classic rich sauce cook and mix with garlic, marjoram, sweet basil, diced shallots, and fresh pizza thyme. Finely dice, mix finely chopped shallots, fresh pesto basil and extra virgin olive oil and place on lightly toasted Turkish bread then top with an anchovie for a special homemade bruschetta.

Landscaping/Planting

Plant in an airy, sunny position in well drained soil or very large pots. Requires a 1.1 to 1.4 m stake.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Like all tomatoes it must receive a deep soaking when almost dry and should not receive overhead watering. Feed regularly with Seasol and Powerfeed. A small amount of dolomite lime after planting will make stronger plants. Remove side shoots and develop two or three main leaders. Harvest when fruit is full color

Herb Attributes

Position Full Sun
Height 1.2m
Width 50cm
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Description

(Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum)

A close relative of the onion but with a bundled sheath of leaves instead of a stem or bulb. It is a symbol of pride in Welsh culture. Once said to be worn in a soldier’s hats to distinguish themselves from the enemy.

Flavours/Food Partners

The Leek has a more subtle and sweeter flavour than standard onions so are an appealing alternative. Herbs such as chervil, parsley, sage, thyme and basil are all complimentary food partners.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

Leeks are a very good source of manganese, vitamins B6 and C, folate and iron. Leek and potato is a classic among soups. Braised leeks with fennel make a delicious side dish for fish, poultry or steak. They should be cooked until tender. Their nutrient combination makes them helpful in stabilizing blood sugar. Once revered by the ancient Greeks and Romans for their beneficial effects upon the throat. Leeks have laxative, antiseptic, diuretic and anti arthritic properties.

Landscaping/Planting

Leeks prefer an open sunny site. They require a moderately rich, fertile free draining slightly alkaline soil.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Harvest early when they are the size of a pencil or can be thinned and grown to a larger size. Regular applications of Seasol and Powerfeed keep the plant healthy and producing well.

Herb Attributes

Position PART TO FULL SUN, MODERATE FROST
Height 50CM
Width 20CM