Sun: Plant in full sun (6 to 8 hours). Space 2 to 4 inches apart within rows or 3 to 4 plants per 2-gallon container. Plant mid-April through mid-Mary and mid-July through early August.
Soil: Amend with organic matter to create a well-drained soil. Avoid planting in unamended sandy or heavy clay soils. If the soil test shows the pH is below 6.2, apply lime as recommended.
For proper drainage in a container garden, use potting mix and ensure containers have drainage holes. Alternatively, consider using self-watering containers.
Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated. Apply 1 to 2 inches of water each week and more during hot summer days. Keep leaves dry to avoid fungal diseases. Mulch helps retain moisture.
Plant: Direct sow seeds 1⁄2 to 1 inch deep. Transplants are not recommended.
Fertilize: In the absence of a soil test, apply an all-purpose fertilizer (8-8-8 or 10-10-10) at planting, according to label directions. Apply nitrogen alongside plants 4 to 6 inches from the stem (side-dress), 3 to 4 weeks after sowing seeds.
Insects/Diseases/Weeds: Scout plants frequently for insect and disease damage. Use insecticidal soap (for soft-bodied insects) or Bt dust or spray (for caterpillars, or worms). Spray fungicides regularly to suppress common fungal diseases. Always follow label instructions. Mulch inhibits weeds and diseases.
Harvest: Harvest at 40 to 50 days, when leaves are 4 to 6 inches long. Harvest time varies depending on the variety.
Other: Succession planting every 2 to 3 weeks will produce a longer harvest. Visit www.aces.edu/go/growmore for more information.
Learn how to grow the best fruits and vegetables with the Grow More Garden Series at www.aces.edu/go/growmore.
Bethany O’Rear, Regional Extension Agent, Home Grounds, Gardens, and Home Pests, Auburn University
New January 2023, Grow More Spinach, ANR-2876-W