Our moderate temperatures and ample rainfall provide ideal conditions for spinach cultivation, as the crop tends to bolt (go to seed prematurely) in hot weather - this also makes it a great one to grow in a shadier spot in the garden or allotment. Cooler temperatures also enhance the flavour and texture of spinach leaves, resulting in tender, succulent foliage.
One of spinach's most appealing traits is its rapid growth rate, making it an attractive option for time-conscious gardeners. Spinach typically matures in just 4 to 6 weeks from sowing, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the growing season.
This quick turnaround makes it an excellent choice for succession planting, ensuring a steady supply of fresh greens from early spring to late autumn. Alternatively, try interplanting it with slower-growing vegetables to maximise space and yield in the garden.
Choose a location with well-drained soil and partial shade, especially during the warmer months. Spinach prefers fertile, moisture-retentive soil with a pH level of 6 to 7.
Plant spinach seeds directly in garden beds or in containers, spacing them 15cm (6in) apart in rows spaced 30cm (12in) apart. Sow seeds 1cm (½in) deep and cover lightly with soil. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2 to 3 weeks.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water spinach plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. Mulching around plants helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weed growth.
Incorporate a balanced organic fertiliser into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Applying a nitrogen-rich fertiliser midway through the growing season will promote vigorous foliage production.
Monitor spinach plants for common pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and slugs, especially in the early stages of growth.
Harvest spinach leaves when they reach the desired size, typically 10-15cm (4 to 6in) in length. Use scissors to cut leaves from the outer edges of the plant, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Regular harvesting encourages continuous leaf production and prevents plants from bolting prematurely.
Enjoy a fast-growing, bountiful harvest of fresh spinach leaves throughout the growing season and reap the benefits of this easy to grow, cool climate, nutritional crop.