How to Grow Spinach in Missouri

Growing spinach in Missouri is ideal for both spring and fall due to the state’s cooler weather in these seasons. Spinach thrives in cool temperatures, and with proper timing, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest in Missouri.

1. Choosing the Right Variety for Missouri

Spinach grows best in Missouri during the cool months of spring and fall. Some suitable varieties for Missouri’s climate include:

  • ‘Bloomsdale Long Standing’: A cold-tolerant variety that is slow to bolt.
  • ‘Tyee’: Known for its disease resistance and ability to withstand temperature fluctuations.
  • ‘Regiment’: A quick-growing variety with large, thick leaves and good cold tolerance.

2. Planting Time

In Missouri, spinach is grown as a cool-season crop. Planting times depend on whether you’re aiming for a spring or fall harvest:

  • Spring planting: Sow seeds in early March to mid-April as soon as the soil can be worked. Spinach tolerates light frosts and prefers temperatures between 45°F and 70°F.
  • Fall planting: For a fall harvest, plant seeds in August to September. Fall is an excellent time to grow spinach as temperatures begin to cool down.

3. Soil Preparation

Spinach requires well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for spinach growth.

  • Amend the soil: Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting. This improves soil fertility and structure.
  • Drainage: Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot. Raised beds can help with drainage in heavy soils.

4. Planting Seeds

Direct seeding is the most common method for growing spinach in Missouri:

  • Sow seeds: Plant spinach seeds ½ inch deep and 2 inches apart. Space rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
  • Thinning: Once the plants are 2 inches tall, thin them to 3 to 4 inches apart to allow for proper growth.

5. Watering and Mulching

Consistent moisture is essential for spinach, especially during Missouri’s fluctuating weather.

  • Watering: Water spinach regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Spinach prefers about 1 inch of water per week.
  • Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve soil moisture and keep the roots cool, especially during warm spells.

6. Fertilization

Spinach is a heavy feeder, especially when growing quickly in the cool season.

  • Pre-planting: Before planting, mix a balanced fertilizer into the soil. This helps spinach get off to a strong start.
  • Side-dressing: After a few weeks, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to encourage leafy growth.

7. Pest and Disease Management

Common pests affecting spinach in Missouri include aphids, slugs, and leaf miners. Use organic solutions like insecticidal soap to control pests. Diseases such as downy mildew and leaf spot can be minimized by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

8. Harvesting

Spinach is ready to harvest about 40 to 50 days after planting, depending on the variety.

  • Harvesting method: Pick outer leaves as needed, or cut the entire plant once it reaches maturity. Spinach can continue producing new leaves after harvest if the center is left intact.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy fresh spinach in both the spring and fall seasons in Missouri, ensuring a consistent supply of nutrient-rich greens.