Do you have lots of shade, but still want to grow something to munch on? Spinach is where it is at then, my friend. Spinach is a cooler weather crop, so it’s one of the first ones I start outdoors. It is great to sneak into smoothies, because it packs a nutritional wallop, and doesn’t affect the flavor to much. It’s one of those leaves {unlike Kale} that actually has a really nice flavor, if you ask me. It can stand alone in salads or be mixed in with other greens…and it’s awesome in quiches and sauteed. Listen, just grow it, so I can stop trying to sell it already.
How to Grow Spinach
Growing spinach from seed is as easy as pie. Actually, pie is an art form, now that I think about it, so that’s a stupid saying. It’s best to start it right outdoors–though, you CAN grow it in containers indoor all winter long, if you have a bit of natural light. I plan to sow my seeds directly outside.
You can do containers, garden beds or in pallets. Plant your seeds about 1/2″ deep. I like to drop a couple of seeds in each hole, just to make sure I get something to germinate. Thin seedlings to 1 every 2″-6″ apart {depending on variety, so check your seed packet} when they are about 1″ tall. Because spinach is a cool weather crop, you will need to find a shady spot for it if you plan to sow it throughout the summer. You can plant seeds in between the rows of taller plants, like corn or tomatoes–or you can plant it in containers and move the container around as needed.
When is Spinach Ready to Harvest?
Once the plant is established and leaves are about 1″ across, you can pretty much pick off the leaves as you need them whenever the mood strikes.
Spinach Salad with Bacon Dijon Dressing
My Favorite Spinach Recipes:
Quinoa Spinach Salad with Tuna and Corn
Freezer Meal Gourmet Spinach Blue Cheese Burgers
If you live in the Pacific Northwest Region and are unsure what seeds you should be starting right now, or when your transplants should be set out in the garden, this regional planting guide should help you out.
Don’t live in the Pacific Northwest? Find your regional planting guide HERE.
Dale says
I haven’t had much luck with spinich the last 2 years. Keeps bolting on me. I love the taste so I’ll try it again. Maybe find a shady spot as you recomend.
katie rucinski says
Hi Mavis, just wondering what to do with the tablespoon of white vinegar in the Spinach Salad w/Bacon Dressing recipe? Thanks, Katie
Mavis says
It was apparently there for fun! Ha. I removed it.
katie rucinski says
Your idea of fun is apparently why i follow your blog!! You are a hoot, and i look forward to reading you daily! Cheerio, Katie
Mavis says
Might be the first time I was ever called a hoot. Love it. Ha!
katie rucinski says
When I said you were a hoot, I meant you were funny! This gave me a good laugh tho!! Ha Ha
Bryan says
I keep trying to see the recipe for the burger but it keeps going to the salad. And btw I just want to say how much of an inspiration you are. I would love to show off my garden like other people do but I’m not sure how to on here. Any help..?
Mavis Butterfield says
The link for the burgers is fixed now. Thanks! And here is this info for sending in your pictures –>>> http://www.onehundreddollarsamonth.com/mavis-mail-send-pictures-of-your-garden-for-a-chance-to-win-a-20-amazon-gift-card/