Space

Spinach

Zone 12a Save Garden

🌱 40d to harvest Rosette

Silky leaves unfurl with a cool, fresh snap—Space spinach delivers tender, medium-smooth foliage that stays sweet and never turns…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 1st
Harvest Begins	Feb 10th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	40
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	30
Harden Off (days)	6

Recommended Companions

Short 'n Sweet Carrot

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a common disease or pest for Spinacia oleracea, and how do I fix it?

Spinach commonly suffers from downy mildew when leaves stay wet and air is humid. Remove and discard infected leaves, water at the soil line in the morning, and improve airflow by spacing plants so the canopy isn’t dense. If the problem keeps recurring, use a labeled fungicide appropriate for downy mildew on leafy greens and avoid overhead watering for the rest of the cycle.

How often should I water Spinacia oleracea during its main growing phase?

During the main growth period, keep the top 1 inch of soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for frequent, light watering as the surface begins to dry. In warm conditions, this often means watering every 1–3 days, while in cooler weather you may need less. Mulch lightly and check moisture by feel; if the soil is dry or the leaves look limp, water immediately to prevent stress and early bolting.

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

Harvest at about 35–45 days when leaves are tender and the plant is forming a good rosette. Pick outer leaves first for a cut-and-come-again harvest, leaving the center to keep producing; for a one-time harvest, remove the whole plant when it reaches full size. If leaves become coarse or the plant bolts (shoots a flower stalk), flavor drops quickly—harvest immediately.

Silky leaves unfurl with a cool, fresh snap—Space spinach delivers tender, medium-smooth foliage that stays sweet and never turns harsh. Expect a rich, deep-green color and a lush, upright habit that makes harvesting feel effortless, with leaves that shine in salads and wilt beautifully into velvety greens for soups, sautés, and sauces. A dependable choice for gardeners seeking early, consistent performance around 40 days to maturity.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 30°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

For the sweetest, least-bitter leaves, keep plants cool and harvest frequently before heat triggers bolting.