did you know?

A native of Central and Southwest Asia, spinach was first cultivated by the Persians, then exported to Europe during the Crusades. In the early 1600s it was brought to America, where its nutritional value and versatility has made it a valuable market crop ever since.

general maintenance:

Thin young plants to 3?4 inches apart. Cultivate soil to reduce weeds and provide aeration.

pests/diseases:

Aphids, flea beetles, leafhoppers, and leaf miners may occur.

controls:

Use floating row covers to protect young leaves from pests. A cool-weather crop, spinach is relatively trouble-free.

how to sow/plant:

Amend soil with well-rotted manure or compost before planting. In spring as soon as soil can be worked, direct sow 1 1/2 inches deep and 2 inches apart in rows 12?18 inches apart. For fall crops, resow in mid- to late summer. In cold zones, sow in fall for an early spring crop; seeds will sprout during thaws and yield the first greens of spring. At Turkey Hill Martha uses her cold frame for extra-early and extra-late harvests.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture all season. Once true leaves appear, feed biweekly with high-nitrogen organic fertilizer, following package directions.

garden hint:

For faster germination, soak seeds for several hours before sowing.

features:

• Disease Resistant
• Frost Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (hearty savoy-type leaves hold up well when cooked)