I'm also in the warmer climate so last year I planted leeks in the spring, they had stunted growth from the heat and didn't do much for me. I even mounded them to create more of the 'white' area at the base of the leeks. Then winter came they got a bit bigger, then stopped growing again. They are back to growth now, and I figure by May I will be finally able to harvest them! I will have to start planting these in August or September right before my onions from now on.