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Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a native of Central and Southwest Asia. In the early 1600s, it was brought to America, where its nutritional value and versatility have made it a valuable market crop ever since.
Spinach seeds can be planted in spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Amend soil with compost before planting. Directly sow seeds 1-1/2" deep and 2" apart in rows 12 to 18" apart. Spinach may also be sowed in mid to late summer for fall crops. Germination takes 7 to 21 days, depending on the variety.
Thin young plants to 4 – 6" apart. Thinnings can be used in salads. Cultivate soil to reduce weeds and provide aeration. Once true leaves appear, feed biweekly with high-nitrogen organic fertilizer. Maintain uniform soil moisture all season. Harvest mature plants before flowering, in 40 – 50 days. A cool-weather crop, spinach is relatively trouble-free.
Makes 4 servings