Description
Latin Name
Spinacia oleracea
Common Name
Spinach
USDA Hardiness Zone
Annual
Exposure
Full sun or partial shade
Days to Harvest
Typically, you can harvest spinach four to six weeks from seed. You can begin harvesting whenever the leaves are large enough for your taste.
Harvesting
Spinach can be harvested in the cut and the come again method of harvesting lettuce. Cut individual leaves, starting with the older, outer leaves and letting the young inner leaves remain to continue growing for a later harvest. You can also cut down the whole plant for a larger harvest. If you cut about an inch above the crown or base of the plant, it is very likely the plant will send out a new flush of leaves.
Tips When Using Spinach
- Spinach, especially the crinkled leaf varieties, hangs onto the soil so be sure to wash well before using.
- Spinach leaves are very sensitive to the ethylene gas given off by many fruits, so don’t store spinach in the refrigerator with apples, melons, or tomatoes.
- Spinach can be frozen for later use. Wash the leaves well and allow them to dry somewhat before placing in a resealable freezer bag. Then zap them in the microwave for about one minute on high. Allow to cool slightly and place in the freezer. Frozen spinach is best used within three to six months.
