Spinach Catalina - Renee's Garden

TO START OUTDOORS

In early spring when danger of hard frost is over, sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun. Space seeds 1 in. apart in rows 8 to 10 in. apart, or broadcast thinly for bed planting. Firm soil well over seeds to ensure good germination. If first sowing germinates unevenly, plant more seed as seedlings will catch up fast. Sow again in late summer.

GROWING NOTES

Spinach is most productive in cool weather. Grow in cool spring conditions and sow again in late summer for a productive fall crop. After seedlings reach 2 to 3 in. tall, thin out every other plant (and enjoy in early salads) and keep thinning in this fashion until plants are spaced 5 or 6 in. apart.

HARVEST AND USE

Either harvest individual outside leaves from well established plants and let regrow, or harvest entire plants. Keep spinach plants well watered and weeded and fertilize these heavy feeders several times as they leaf out and especially after harvesting outside leaves. Combine well-washed and dried leaves with your favorite garlicy salad dressing; spinach pairs well with hearty dressings like the traditional hot bacon dressing. Good spinach salad additions include thinly sliced sweet red onions, sliced radishes, thin wedges of red apple or orange segments, toasted nutmeats, chopped scallions, crispy bacon bits, hard-cooked egg quarters and finely grated hard cheese.