Leek Pests And Diseases

Leeks are susceptible to the pests and diseases that most of the allium family are vulnerable to and the treatments are the same in many cases.

Onion flies can lay their eggs at the base of the leek and the larvae will bore into the leaves and the top of the root and will destroy the plant eventually. The plant should be removed and destroyed.

Leek moths lay their eggs at the base of the leeks and the larvae tunnel through the stems and completely ruin the plant. Remove and destroy it as soon as possible.

Onion thrips can attack the leaves giving a white damaged appearance and can reduce the size of the crop. They are usually related to hot dry weather.

White rot is a fungus that can be attracted to the leek giving a grey powdery cover to the leaves. It will turn the leaves yellow and destroy the leek. Remove and destroy the plant and rotate the crop, as with a lot of fungal diseases the spores will remain in the soil for some years to come. Leek rust is another fungal problem that gives rust coloured discolouration on the leaves and the same cure as the white rot is relevant although spraying with a Bordeaux mixture may help.

Like leeks? Then find out How To Grow Leeks

By Richard Allen -