Growing Spinach - Benefits and Instructions
Benefits of Growing Spinach
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Medicinal- Spinach has been shown to improve oxidative stress, eye health, and blood pressure.
- Nutritional Profile - Spinach contains vitamins A,C and K and is very high in iron and calcium.
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Use in: Soups, stews, curries, smoothies, fresh salads.
Growing Instructions
Culture:
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Soil pH of 6.5-7.5. Moderate feeders require a fertile, well cultivated soil. Enrich soil with plenty of compost and some partially rotted manure or fertilizer high in nitrogen.
Moisture: Needs even moisture for good growth. Drought and warm temperatures will cause premature bolting.
Planting: Spinach thrives in cool weather, so plant as soon as the soil can be worked or when soil temperatures are between 10-24 degrees C. For a fall crop, plant again in late August or early September.
Spacing: Plant 9 Spinach plants per square foot of growing space using Square Foot Gardening Method. Or plant in rows 12 inches apart.
Sow seeds: Sow thinly, about 1⁄2 inches deep.
Harvesting:
Cut as soon as leaves are big enough to eat. If spinach is looking old and tired, cut the entire plant back to 1 inch tall to stimulate young, tasty growth. If showing signs of bolting, harvest the whole crop.
Storage/Preparation:
Store your spinach in paper towel lined containers. By placing it in the colder compartments of the refrigerator you will retain freshness for up to a week longer than normal. Spinach can be frozen as whole leaves or as a puree.
Companions:
Beans, Brassicas, celery, lettuce, onion, pea.