The Requirements to Grow Spinach in South Africa
When is the best time to plant Spinach in South Africa?
In South Africa, spinach can be planted from August until April. If the spinach crop is seeded directly, the planting depth should be about 20 mm. However, the depth of planting on heavy soils should be much shallower than that of the light soil for ease of germi- nation and emergence.
How long does it take for spinach to grow in South Africa?
Spinach is a fast crop and you will be able to start harvesting the outer leaves about 28-50 days after sowing it in the garden. Harvest just before cooking as the leaves wilt fast.
How is spinach grown at home in South Africa?
Direct sowing is used and thinning can take place to ensure the correct spacing. Mechanical planting is done as well to ensure correct spacing at planting. Seeds should be planted 20 mm deep. Seedlings can also be sown in seed trays and planted out when grown to ten centimeters.
What is the best way to grow spinach?
Spinach does best when growing in moist, nitrogen-rich soil. Spinach plants form a deep taproot; for best growth, loosen the soil at least 1 foot deep before planting. Sow spinach seed as early as six weeks before the last frost or as soon as you can work the soil.
What are the Steps to grow Spinach in South Africa?
Growing tips:
Spinach likes rich, fertile soil and plenty of moisture. You can either sow seed directly or transplant seedlings. In most areas, successive sowing can be done from early spring until early winter, but more often during hotter months. The plants prefer full sun, except in warmer weather when they benefit from semi-shade. Keep soil well-mulched and make sure the ground doesn’t dry out.
