When to Plant Leeks in Union County, FL
Leeks are a mild, sweet allium that produces long white shanks. They are more refined than onions and are a key ingredient in soups, stews, and gratins.
Union County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 1 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 271 days.
At an elevation of 360 feet, Union County receives approximately 60.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Leeks may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Leeks will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Leeks root diseases.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Union County
How your county's soil matches Leeks's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.2–6.0) is more acidic than Leeks prefers (6.0–7.0). Add garden lime to raise pH.
Soil Texture
Sandy soil in Union County warms quickly in spring but drains fast. Leeks will need more frequent watering and regular compost additions to retain nutrients.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Leeks.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is low (1.3%). Add 2-3 inches of compost before planting Leeks.
How to Plant Leeks
Fall planting: Sow 8 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Plant Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Leeks
Leeks needs approximately 0.8 inches of water per week (3.5" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Leeks Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 3.5" | 3.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 3.5" | 2.8" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 3.5" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 3.5" | 8.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 3.5" | 10" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 3.5" | 9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 3.5" | 7.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 3.5" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 3.5" | 2.7" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Union County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Leeks Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Leeks Planting Timeline — Union County, FL
Leeks Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 1 | Feb 1 – Feb 15 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 1 | Mar 1 – Mar 15 |
| Direct Sow | February 8 | Feb 8 – Mar 1 |
| Harvest | May 31 | May 31 – Aug 16 |
| Fall Sowing | October 2 | Oct 2 – Oct 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.8"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
90–150 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: too_acidic
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
271 days in Union County
Growing Tips for Leeks in Union County
Direct sow Leeks outdoors after March 01 in Union County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Sandy soil in Union County dries quickly — mulch Leeks with 2-3 inches of straw and water deeply 2-3 times per week rather than lightly every day.
With summer highs reaching 96°F in Union County, provide afternoon shade for Leeks and water deeply in the morning.
Common pests for Leeks in this region include onion maggots and thrips. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost. Transplant into trenches and hill soil around stems as they grow to increase the white portion. Harvest as needed.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
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Leeks in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Leeks in Union County, FL?
Union County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 1. Plan your Leeks planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, FL?
Union County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 1 and first fall frost is November 27.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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