Spinach is a beloved leafy green and a staple in the spring and fall garden. This fast-growing cool season annual thrives in rich, moist soil and rewards growers with an abundance of nutritious leaves. The flavour is mild and versatile, perfect in everything from fresh salads to sautéed dishes. Spinach can also be harvested young for baby greens or left to mature for larger leaves, and it preserves beautifully when steamed and frozen.

Where Can You Grow Spinach?
Spinach performs best in Zones 3–9 during the cooler months of spring and autumn. It prefers partial to full sun and benefits from regular watering and a nutrient-rich soil.

History and Historical Uses
Cultivated for over 2,000 years, spinach is thought to have originated in ancient Persia before spreading to Europe and Asia. Valued across cultures for its health benefits and culinary versatility, spinach remains one of the most widely consumed leafy greens today.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow early spring and again in late summer for fall harvest.
Zones 5-7: Sow outdoors as soon as soil can be worked; repeat sowing every few weeks.
Zones 3-4: Use row covers or cold frames to start early and extend the season.

How to Grow and Harvest Spinach
Planting: Sow seeds 1cm (½in) deep, 5cm (2in) apart, thinning to 10–15cm (4–6in).
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; mulch helps retain moisture.
Harvesting: Pick individual leaves once large enough to eat, or cut whole plants at base.
Maintenance: Succession sow every 2–3 weeks for continuous harvest.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Allow Plants to Bolt: Let a few plants go to seed after the weather warms.
Collect Seeds: Harvest seed stalks once dry and brown.
Dry and Store: Rub seed heads gently to release seeds, then dry thoroughly.
Store: Keep in a cool, dry, dark place; viable for 3–5 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)