Slow Germination in Spinach

Temperature

• The ideal temperature for spinach seed germination is between 50F and 60F, though the seeds will germinate at temperatures between 38F and 40F. Even at the most ideal temperatures, spinach seeds may take up to two weeks to germinate. However, the germination process slows considerably when the seeds are planted in temperatures lower than 38F and higher than 60F. Furthermore, plants grown at lower temperatures may be stunted and weak, while plants grown at temperatures too high may bolt (go to seed too quickly) and become spindly.

Soil

• Spinach is tolerant of most soil types, though it prefers sandy, light soil with proper drainage. Spinach is not tolerant of acidic soil, and it may promote slow spinach seed germination. Have your soil tested and strive for a soil pH of 6.4 to 6.8. Never allow water to stand in the soil, creating a muddy or soggy ground for the seeds. Work organic fertilizers such as compost or peat moss into the soil to enrich it and make it a healthy environment for the seeds to germinate and grow.

Age

• Spinach seeds that are more than one year old often experience slow germination. Once these seeds do germinate, often the plants do not thrive. Older spinach seeds also produce low amounts of viable seedlings and irregularly germinating seedlings. In order to prevent this, plant only fresh spinach seed obtained from a healthy, fresh crop. If you purchase spinach seeds, select a reputable dealer you trust. Finally, use all the fresh seeds you have to plant, discarding any unused seeds to avoid a slowly germinating, damaged crop next year.

Growth Stage

• Spinach seeds grow in three stages: the moisture-soaking stage, the cell-growing stage and the emergence stage. Allowing the seeds an extended amount of time in the second, or cell-growing, stage often prevents slow germination. The best way to ensure seeds get plenty of time in stage two is to soak the seeds indoors for 24 hours. Place the seeds on a wet paper towel and allow them to air dry for up to two days. Once dry, transfer the seeds into a sealed plastic storage bag and allow them to remain there for one week before planting. This process actually speeds up the germination process, rather than enduring an average or slow germination.