When to Plant Leeks in Barren County, KY
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.
Barren County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 28, giving you a growing season of approximately 202 days.
At an elevation of 2,292 feet, Barren County receives approximately 51.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Leeks during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Leeks root diseases.
Barren County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-6.5
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.
Plant Water Budget
Leeks Planting Timeline — Barren County, KY
Leeks Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 |
| Fall Sowing | August 19 | Aug 19 – Sep 2 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 24 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–150 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
202 days
Growing Tips for Barren County
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
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Leeks in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Leeks in Barren County, KY?
Barren County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Leeks planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Barren County, KY?
Barren County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 28.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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