How to Grow Autumn Spinach: A Detailed Guide to Planting Time and Management Methods

Spinach is a common vegetable and can be grown all year round. Autumn spinach refers to spinach planted from August to November. So how do you grow autumn spinach?

1. Seed treatment

Sowing usually begins in August, when the temperature is still relatively high and has a certain effect on the development of spinach seeds. Especially in early August, the temperature at this time is mostly above 25 degrees, so before sowing it is best to do the work of sprouting the seeds, which can speed up seedling emergence and shorten the growth cycle. For sprouting, you can choose the simplest method of soaking in clean water. First wash the seeds clean with clean water, then soak them in clean water for about three to five days. Once the seeds have grown tender sprouts, they can be sown. During this period, be careful to change the water in time.

2. Sow at the right time

Spinach is generally sown directly, mostly by broadcasting. The sowing time can be in late July or early October, sown in batches. Before sowing, first apply enough bottom water, spread the seeds evenly on the ground, then lightly rake the surface soil to cover the seeds. Use straw or build a shed to shade the light and retain moisture, and keep the soil moist, which helps speed up seedling emergence. Seedlings will be fully emerged in about a week. The sowing rate should be determined according to climate changes. In the early period of high temperature, drought, and rainy weather, seedlings are prone to death, so the sowing rate is larger, generally requiring about six kg of seed per mu. In the later period, as the temperature drops, the sowing rate can be reduced to about three kg of seed per mu.

3. Field management

During the seedling growth period of autumn spinach, the temperature is relatively high, so it is necessary to water more to keep the soil moist. This can also help lower the soil temperature and provide the seedlings with a comfortable growing environment. The early growth stage of autumn spinach occurs during a dry climate period, so the management of fertilizer and water should also be strengthened. When the leaves have grown, some manure water can be applied. As the temperature drops, gradually increase the concentration of the fertilizer. However, this method is only suitable when the soil is dry or the climate is dry. When the seedlings have grown two to three leaves, thin them appropriately, then clear the weeds in the field completely, and fertilize in time. For topdressing, use organic fertilizer, and in the later growth stage use quick-acting chemical fertilizer.

4. Harvesting

Autumn spinach has a relatively short growth cycle and can be harvested 30 to 60 days after sowing. Harvesting should be based on growth conditions and market demand. Generally, when the plants grow to 10 cm, they can be harvested in batches. When harvesting, give priority to harvesting those that are too densely grown or about to bolt. During harvesting, also remove diseased and yellowed leaves, tie them into bundles of half a jin or one jin, and they can be sold on the market.

Growing autumn spinach is relatively simple, but if you want high yields, you must master the growing techniques and do a good job of field management.