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How to Grow Spinach

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Ready to grow Spinach?

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πŸ› οΈ Supplies You'll Need

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Find Your Spinach Planting Dates

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Spinacia oleracea
Category vegetable
Type Leaf
Days to Maturity 40 days
Starting Method Direct Sow

β˜€οΈ Growing Requirements

β˜€οΈ

Sun

Partial Shade to Full Sun

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Water

Regular (keep moist)

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Spacing

6" apart

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Depth

0.5" deep

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Height

6-12"

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Germination

7-14 days

Ready to Grow Spinach?

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🀝 Good Companions

StrawberryPeaBeanBrassicas
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Full Companion Planting Guide for Spinach

See which plants help Spinach thrive, which to keep away, and raised bed layout tips β†’

🌾 Seed Saving Guide

🟑 Moderate
βœ… Open-pollinated β€” seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Let plants bolt in heat and allow seed stalks to dry fully before harvesting.

Processing

Strip dried seed stalks, thresh to release seeds, winnow to remove chaff.

Seed Viability

Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Spinach is wind-pollinated and dioecious β€” you need both male and female plants. Isolate by 1000 feet for pure seed.

Seed Storage Supplies

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4Γ—8 bed fits 4 per sq ft of Spinach. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size β†’

Spinach Planting Calendar by Zone

Spinach Planting Calendar by State

Other Plants

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Spinach? +

Sow Spinach seeds directly in the garden 6 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Spinach take to grow? +

Spinach typically matures in about 40 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Spinach indoors or direct sow? +

Spinach does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Spinach need? +

Spinach requires partial shade to full sun to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Spinach? +

Space Spinach plants 6 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Spinach need? +

Spinach has regular (keep moist) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Spinach? +

Yes β€” seed saving difficulty for Spinach is rated moderate. Let plants bolt in heat and allow seed stalks to dry fully before harvesting. Strip dried seed stalks, thresh to release seeds, winnow to remove chaff.

How long do Spinach seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Spinach seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Spinach seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes β€” Spinach is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Spinach

Nutrient-dense leafy green for cool seasons. Bolts quickly in heat; plant in spring and fall.

Expect your Spinach to be ready for harvest in approximately 40 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.