Palco

Spinach

Zone 10a Save Garden

🌱 45d to harvest Rosette

Tender, flat leaves unfurl with a velvety, deep-green sheen and a pleasantly mild bite—Palco spinach is prized for its smooth tex…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 19th
Last Frost	Jan 16th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 9th
Harvest Begins	Feb 23rd
Harvest Ends	Dec 19th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	45
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	5

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease issue for spinach (Spinacia oleracea) and how do I prevent it?

Spinach commonly gets downy mildew, which shows as yellow patches on top leaves and fuzzy gray-purple growth on the undersides. Prevent it by watering at the soil line (not overhead) and spacing plants so leaves dry quickly; remove and discard infected leaves promptly. If it’s actively spreading, use a labeled fungicide that’s approved for leafy greens and downy mildew, applied according to the label.

How often should I water spinach (Spinacia oleracea) during its main growing phase to avoid bolting or poor growth?

During the main growth period, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for evenly damp soil 1–2 inches down. Typically water about 1 inch per week total, split into 2–3 waterings during warm or windy weather, and reduce slightly as days cool. Inconsistent moisture can stress spinach and speed up bolting, especially when temperatures rise.

How can I tell when spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when leaves are large enough to use—usually around 45 days—by cutting outer leaves about 1–2 inches above the soil. Look for healthy, tender texture and avoid harvesting leaves that are tough or severely thickened, which can indicate early bolting. You can do repeated cut-and-come-again harvests as long as the plant keeps producing new leaves.

Tender, flat leaves unfurl with a velvety, deep-green sheen and a pleasantly mild bite—Palco spinach is prized for its smooth texture and quick, even harvest at about 45 days. Ideal for fresh bunches and fast turnarounds, its foliage stays supple and attractive, holding flavor beautifully whether you’re serving it as a star green or folding it into everyday favorites.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 5 days first.

Expert Note

Even bolting-resistant spinach performs best with cool soil—aim to transplant when nights are consistently above freezing to establish quickly.