Spinach, which are known botanically as Lactuca Sativa, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing spinach as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Spinach
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the spinach seeds late winter or early spring for a fast crop and again in late summer or early fall. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when spinach are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Spinach the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing spinach in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your spinach grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained soil rich in organic matter such as compost. Soil PH levels should be around 6.5 to 8.
30cm apart in rows that are 45 cm apart. 8-12 inches between plants in rows. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 5″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your spinach seedlings when plants are about 3″ tall, thin to 6″ apart.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Spinach
How Much to Water Spinach
How Long Does it Take Spinach to Germinate and Grow?
When to Harvest Spinach
The best time to harvest your spinach is as soon as it is a rosette with five or six leaves.
Spinach can grow up to about six to 12 inches tall.
What Can Spinach Be Used For?
Food Use: raw in a salad or blended into a smoothie for its folate content
Flavor Profile: A great old-time taste!
Can Spinach Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you can plant up to 1 plant per 12″+ container. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your spinach around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Spinach Safe for Bees?
Yes, spinach are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing spinach is bee-friendly.
