Named for its wide, sturdy stems, which resemble flag poles, American Flag leek is a relatively carefree variety that consistently produces 1-2" wide stalks with tender, white interiors Stems have an exceptional flavor with a mild sweetness that intensifies with frost American Flag leeks are very easy to grow from seed; The plants pictured here were started indoors in mid-March and set out a month later when they were merely more than threads GMO-free, chemical-free seeds; Regularly tested to ensure at least 85% germination Durable packaging protects seeds from light and moisture, extending the survival of the seeds by years; A great choice for preparedness seed vaults; Resealable zipper tops make for convenient storage and planting Named for its wide, sturdy stems, which resemble flag poles, American Flag leek is a relatively carefree variety that consistently produces 1-2" wide stalks with tender, white interiors. Stems have an exceptional flavor with a mild sweetness that intensifies with frost. We love them sliced, sauteed in butter and added to a simmering pot of potatoes for a belly-warming treat on that first really chilly fall workday. American Flag leeks are very easy to grow from seed. The plants pictured here were started indoors in mid-March and set out a month later when they were merely more than threads. 150 days to harvest. 100 seeds per packet. CULTURE: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Sow seeds 1/4" deep in well moistened seed starting mix and cover with a plastic dome. Set in a warm place and keep moist until germination has occurred (7-14 days). Once most of the seed has germinated, remove the plastic top and give plants access to light (if not already) Trim tops down when they reach 4-5" to prevent them from becoming tangled. Set outdoors as soon as soil can be worked. In new location, poke a 4" deep hole in the soil with a pencil, carefully tease apart seedling from tray and lower the seedling into the hole, burying 2-3" of stem. Final spacing should be 2-3" between plants with rows 18" apart. Fertilize regularly in spring and early summer. Hill up soil around plants as needed to blanch stems.