Spinach — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Spinacia oleracea |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 7.2–18.3 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 40–50 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 7.6–15.2 |
| Mature height (cm) | 15.2–25.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 15.2–22.9 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Direct-sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in fertile, well-drained, slightly alkaline soil as early as 4 weeks before last frost in spring or 4–6 weeks before first fall frost; spinach is a cool-season crop that thrives in soil temperatures below 65°F and bolts rapidly when days lengthen and temperatures exceed 75°F in late spring. Choose slow-bolting varieties for spring planting; fall-planted spinach often overwinters in zone 6–9 and produces an abundant early spring harvest before heat sets in. Harvest outer leaves frequently once plants have 5–6 leaves; baby spinach can be cut-and-come-again at 3 inches tall for the highest yield per square foot. Rich in iron, folate, vitamin K, and lutein; oxalic acid in the leaves binds some minerals and is reduced by light cooking.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0