How to Grow a Bountiful Harvest of Spinach: Tips for Soil Preparation and Care
Spinach is one of the most nutritious leafy vegetable crops, known for its hardiness and high content of iron, vitamins, and minerals. Due to its ease of cultivation, this plant is suitable for both experienced gardeners and beginners, and can provide a steady harvest throughout the season.
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Soil Preparation and Features of Spinach Sowing
To achieve a generous harvest of spinach, it is important to properly prepare the soil. The optimal environment for this crop is fertile, well-drained soils with neutral acidity. Before sowing, the bed should be turned over to a depth of 20–25 cm, adding organic fertilizers such as manure or compost (one bucket per square meter). Seeds are sown in rows, leaving 15–20 cm between them, with a planting depth of 1–2 cm. For continuous harvesting of fresh leaves, it is recommended to repeat sowing every 2–3 weeks until mid-summer.
Basic Care Guidelines and Harvesting
Spinach germinates best at temperatures of 15–18°C. The first shoots usually appear 7–10 days after sowing. For full development, the plant requires regular watering and loosening of the soil between rows, as the main condition is to maintain consistent soil moisture. During hot periods, it is especially important to prevent drying out; otherwise, spinach may quickly bolt.
“The first spinach harvest is collected 30-40 days after the shoots appear, when the leaves reach a length of 8-10 centimeters. It is best to harvest in the morning when the leaves are most juicy and crisp.”
When the plants reach a height of 3–4 cm, thinning is carried out, leaving 8–10 cm between the seedlings. The young pulled plants are also suitable for consumption. To extend the harvesting period, it is recommended to regularly cut the outer leaves, leaving the center intact — this stimulates the growth of new leaves. In summer, when temperatures rise, spinach quickly bolts, so it is advisable to choose heat-resistant varieties or provide light shading for the beds to prolong the harvest period.
