Spinach

Variety:

Renegade F1

Approx. 250 seeds

Sowing:

Seeds should be sown approximately 1.5cm deep using 2/3 seeds per cell and rows should be around 30cm apart.

Harvesting:

Spinach is generally ready to harvest 6-10 weeks after sowing, preferably starting with the plants that has produced at least 6 leaves. Go for the outer and lower leaves first and land this allows the centre of the plant to grow further.

Information:

Spinach likes a rich, well drained soil with a pH of around 6.5 – 7.

Spinach will tolerate low temperatures.

Sowing can be done in two batches, first from around Spring – mid June or alternatively in mid-summer (around September) to produce a late year crop.

It is a good idea to sow seeds every 3-4 weeks and this way you will maintain a continuous supply.

Spinach is quite a quick grower with just 6 weeks from sow to harvest.

Using a fleece will deter pests such as aphids, flea beetles and slugs and snails.

Spinach seeds do not have a long shelf life and it is not recommended to use seeds beyond 2 years old.

Interestingly, spinach was found to have some of the highest levels of pesticide residues meaning of all vegetables to grow organically, there is very good reason to prioritise spinach.

Nutritional Information:

Spinach is rich in iron, manganese, magnesium and potassium and while it can be eaten raw or cooked, experts suggest that when cooked, it breaks down the oxalic acid which increases the absorption of iron as opposed to consuming it raw. It is considered a superfood.

Fun Fact:

Popeye was on to something in his love of spinach as experts say there is nitrate in spinach which assists in boosting muscle strength.