The 'Autumn Beauty' leek variety is a late-maturing and hardy variety known since the early 19th century. The plant reaches a height of 1-1.2 meters and is characterized by long, wide, blue-grey fan-shaped leaves. The thickened white stem, ranging from 38 to 51 cm in length, features significant thickness and a snow-white color, making it easy to harvest and clean. This variety is distinguished by its high cold resistance and ability to maintain its qualities throughout the winter, allowing it to be used both fresh and for long-term storage until May. To obtain a long blanched stem, high hill-mounding is recommended 3-4 times during the growing season, along with ensuring regular watering and fertilization with organic and mineral fertilizers. 'Autumn Beauty' leek is distinguished by its high productivity and excellent taste – piquant and tender. The thickened lower white part of the stem and young leaves are used for food, which are perfect for salads, soups, and vegetable sides. Moreover, this variety possesses healing properties: it is beneficial for hypovitaminosis, obesity, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders, aids in improving liver and gallbladder function, and boosts appetite. The variety grows easily on various soil types and is suitable for both open ground and greenhouses. The first harvest can be collected as early as October, while some plants can be left to overwinter for fresh vegetables during the period when the selection of other vegetables is limited. Thanks to its large size and high resistance to adverse conditions, 'Autumn Beauty' is an excellent choice for those who value quality and healthy vegetables with a long storage period.
