Successfully Growing Spinach
Spinach has earned its way on the list of superfoods because of the benefits that it has in helping us to become healthier. But how do we grow these veggies in our home gardens?
The process of spinach is really simple, all it takes is knowing how along with some effort, and before you know it you will be well on your way to growing and harvesting this veggie right from your home garden.
Planting Instruction
The best time to plant Spinach is in early spring.
1. Chose an area that gets full sun, even though Spinach loves the cool weather planting them in full sun will give them a good start.
2. Spinach loves soil that drains well. Adding soil amendments such as compost or organic soil will go a look way to ensure success.
3. Soil PH adjustment is a must. Spinach loves a soil Ph in the range of 6.5-7.0, also cultivate the soil to ensure that there are no rocks and that soil is smoothly even.
4. Place seeds about 1/2 inch in soil and space about 12 inches apart because spinach needs room to grow. This spacing is also good for proper air circulation.
5. Once the seed is in the hole cover and press gently.
6. Water seeds adequately for the plant’s overall health.
Other options or planting methods
Another alternative to growing Spinach is planting it in a raised bed or container garden.
Care of spinach
A. Fertilizing spinach with an organic fertilizer will and can help. Follow as directed.
B. Mulch your planting area helps to keep weeds down along with keeping soil temperature cool.
C. Allow spinach to dry out a bit between watering.
D. As mentioned above thin leaves to ensure that sufficient space is between each individual plant for proper air circulation.
Common Pests of Spinach
Insects such as leafhoppers, snails, armyworms, aphids, leafminers, caterpillars, cutworms, and flea beetles are common pests that can be controlled by using insecticides That are formulated for control.
Organic fertilizers are a great choice or check with your nurseryman and garden center sales persons on treatment. You can also click on the link to learn more about these insecticides that may offer some help.
Diseases of Spinach
Diseases of Spinach may include damping off, and leaf spots, The use of fungicides can help treat and bring these diseases under control.
A word of Warning. When using pesticides on crops to be eaten purchase only pesticides that are formulated to be used on crops
Time harvest
Start harvesting your spinach when leaves are mature, most varieties can be harvested anywhere from 40-45 days. If the time of harvest is delayed leaves will become bitter.
The leaves can be harvested by cutting at the stem with a pruner, knife, or scissors.
The final word
Growing and harvesting your own homegrown spinach is really amazing and as you supercharge your diet with this superfood, let’s give it a try as we grow healthy, and eat to live longer.
About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.