SpringSummerFallWinter

About Spinach

Spinach is a cool-season green, typically 6–12 inches tall — not 24–36 inches. It bolts when days lengthen and heat arrives. Fall sowings often outproduce spring.

When to Plant

Direct-sow 4–6 weeks before last frost, and again 6–8 weeks before first fall frost. Germination is poor in warm soil.

How to Plant

Sow ½ inch deep. Thin to 3–6 inches, rows 12 inches. Keep moist and feed with a high-nitrogen organic source (compost, fish emulsion) because spinach is a leafy crop. A light shade cloth stretches the spring season.

When to Harvest

Cut outer leaves, or harvest the whole rosette. Baby leaf at 3–4 weeks. After frost, flavor sweetens.