Carrots/Leeks, early sowing or should I wait?

[morverngirl]

TS Thanks for link on germination temps

[Dead Dogs]

..... (unless someone can tell me they go well started in loo rolls/ Rootrainers and planted out later)

Not tried carrots, but did try Parsnips. Loo rools didn't work well. Roots came through bottom very quickly and end up with Parsnips that looked like a birds nest. However, I have also tried the centre from kitchen rolls. These worked well, though awkward to stand up especially once the card has been wet for a few days. Best was to put a few in large (7" or 8") pots.

[shona_b]

I have some leek seeds outside in the lean-to greenhouse but reading all the posts makes me think I'll bring them in to give them a better chance! I do have a south facing patio door-sill with just the space I need

[cazp]

Leeks (Lyon 2 Prizetaker as well- free seeds from GYO??) are started in modules in the conservatory...

Hi, yes I was going to grow Oarsman, but when these arrived free with magazine I thought worth a try... anyone tried Prizetaker?

[Scarlet]

Yep! I grew those last year - had a very good crop.

[cazp]

Thanks Scarlet - hoping for a good crop here too then!

Given all the good advice on this thread so far (thanks all!) I will sow my leeks this week, but may leave the carrots for when the weather gets a little warmer.

[Leeds_lad]

How good are carrot seeds with snow?
Planted some about 3 days ago then boom, the snow hit before I could cover them. Will they begin coming once it's melted or are they doomed now?

[Two_Sheds]

How good are carrot seeds with snow?

As I said earlier, I don't sow until April when the soil's warmed up. "Seeds of carrot may germinate at low temperatures but the germination period is shorter at higher temperatures and a soil temperature of at least 10 ºC is therefore recommended." Carrot Growing - In depth guide to growing carrots