How to Transplant Allium Tricoccum

Allium tricoccum, also known as the wild leek or ramp, prefers a partly shaded dedicuous forest or wild garden with well-drained, moist, rich soil. The growth period is from March through September, although the soil should be moist year-round for seed germination. It reproduces by seed and producing offsets from the root bulb. It has an onion-like smell and flavor and is used in cooking savory dishes. The leaves and flowers also can be used in salads as an alternative to onions or scallions.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Garden trowel
• Leaf mulch

1. Dig bulbs for transplanting between September and March, when they are dormant. March is the best time to transplant the bulbs. Dig them up after the ground has thawed, being very careful not to damage either the root or the bulb.

2. Transplant the bulbs about 3 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. The entire root should be buried, and only the very tip of the bulb should show above the surface.

3. Mulch the plants well with hardwood leaves rather than pine bark or commercial mulches. The decaying leaves will help keep the soil moist and provide nutrients required for a healthy colony of plants. This also will help control weeds, which compete with the Allium tricoccum and can take over their growing area.

Tips & Warnings

• Light harvesting of the Allium tricoccum plant colony can start within two to three years, depending on the growing conditions. Take care not to damage roots or bulbs when harvesting to help keep the remaining plants healthy.

References

• North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension - Cultivation of Ramps
• Illinoiswildflowers.info - Wild Leek