New Zealand spinach
A sprawling summer green that tolerates heat better than true spinach.
New Zealand spinach seeds
£2.49 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
April–May indoors; plant out after frost
Plant out
Soak seeds before sowing; pick shoot tips often to encourage branching.
Harvest
July–October
Conditions
Sun
Partial shade (especially in summer) to full sun
Water
Keep soil consistently moist to prevent bolting
Soil
Rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.5
Spacing
10-15cm (4-6") between plants; 30cm (12") between rows
Containers
Good for pots and window boxes
Indoors
Can be grown in a cool, bright conservatory or greenhouse during winter
Care and harvest
Feeding
Not usually necessary if soil is fertile; a balanced liquid feed can boost growth
Pruning
Remove yellowing leaves
Harvesting
Soak seeds before sowing; pick shoot tips often to encourage branching.
Storage
Wash, dry, and store in an airtight container or bag in the fridge for up to a week
Good companions: Strawberries, Cabbage, Peas