Spinach Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Amaranthaceae
Plant Type:
Annual

Square Foot Spacing:

9
Typical Season:
Cool season
Typical Zones Grown In:
2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10
Growing Difficulty:
Easy

Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and calcium. It has a mild, slightly bitter taste and a tender texture, and can be eaten raw or cooked. Spinach is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, quiches, and stir-fries. It is easy to grow and can be grown in a variety of conditions, including in containers or in the ground. Spinach prefers cool temperatures and well-draining soil, and can be sown in early spring or in the fall for a winter crop. It requires consistent moisture and regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth, and can be harvested when the leaves are large enough to be picked.

How to Grow Spinach Organically

Spinach is relatively easy to grow and can be grown in both containers and in the ground. Here is a brief guide on how to grow spinach organically:

  1. Location: Choose a spot that receives partial shade and has well-draining soil. Spinach prefers cool temperatures, so try to avoid planting in hot, direct sunlight.
  2. Soil Preparation: Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting to improve soil fertility and structure.
  3. Sowing Seeds: Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them about 2-3 inches apart and covering them with about 1/2 inch of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
  4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply at least once a week, and more frequently during hot, dry weather.
  5. Thinning: Once the seedlings have grown to about 2 inches tall, thin them out to about 6 inches apart to give them room to grow.
  6. Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and slugs, and use organic methods like handpicking or spraying with a mixture of water and neem oil to control them.
  7. Harvesting: Harvest spinach leaves when they are about 4-6 inches long, either by cutting the entire plant or by picking individual leaves. Spinach is a fast-growing crop, and can be harvested in as little as 4-6 weeks after planting.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
Direct Sow
When to Direct Sow:
March,April,August
When to Start Indoors:
Sprouting Time:
7-14 days

Ideal Temperature (C):

5-20
Depth:
2cm deep
Spacing (cm):
10 seeds per 30cm (12″)
Row Spacing (cm):
30-45cm (12-18″)
Sun Exposure:
Part Shade
Maturity Time:
45 days
When To Harvest:
April,May,June,September,October
How to Harvest:
Harvest once the plant has 4 true leaves and continue to harvest leaves as they appear, picking the entire plants once it bolts

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
Yes
Edible Parts:
Leaves
Potential Health Benefits:
Antioxidant,Fights Diabetes,Cancer Fighting ,Eye Health,Blood Pressure,Iron

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
Kale,Collards,Broccoli,Brussel Sprouts,Cauliflower,Eggplant,Leek,Lettuce,Pea,Radish,Strawberry
What Plants to Avoid:
Potato
Common Pests:
Leaf miner
Common Disease:
Downy mildew
Bonus Grow Tips:
When seedlings sprout you'll want to thin to 3-4 inches apart. Use the thinned out spinach for a baby spinach salad!

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