How to Harvest Wild Leeks

Wild leeks, commonly called ramps, are a signature sign of spring in many communities. Some towns, particularly in the South Appalachian region, host yearly ramp festivals. Before harvesting wild leeks, check with your local extension service to see if harvesting is restricted in your area. Some areas suffer from depleted populations because of over-harvesting. Harvest either the entire garlicky-tasting plant or just take some leaves from smaller clusters of leeks to allow for future growth. Cooks fry or boil both the bulbs and the leaves, often seasoning them with butter, salt and pepper.

Hoe
Shears

Instructions

- 1
  Dig gently into the ground next to a cluster of wild leeks with a garden hoe. Expose the bulbs.
- 2
  Inspect the bulbs. Select the larger ones for harvesting. Take no more than 15 percent of bulbs from a cluster of wild leeks to allow for sustainable harvesting.
- 3
  Grasp each plant by its base and pull up gently to harvest the whole leek.
- 4
  Harvest the leaves of the smaller bulbs with a pair of garden shears. Cover the bulbs back up with soil to allow them to grow larger for harvesting in subsequent years.
- 5
  Place the harvested wild leeks in a cool, damp area while you work. If you need to leave one cluster of leeks to look for another, place a damp towel over your harvested plants.

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Bulbs