Germination Time for Spinach

Germination Time

• Spinach seed may be round and smooth or prickly or rough on the surface. Given the proper soil and temperature, the seeds take 12 to 20 days to germinate, cites D. G. Hessayon in "The New Vegetable & Herb Expert." Spinach, especially leafy green spinach, also grows in containers filled with fertile loam or compost. Spinach seeds sown in containers also take 10 to 20 days to germinate. The seeds germinate at 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit with the best germination rate at 50 to 60 degrees. Germination rate is reduced in warmer soil.

Soil

• Use a variety of well-drained soils for spinach as the vegetable is quite adaptable. Growth is best in a fertile, sandy loam preferably amended with organic matter prior to planting. Recommended soil pH for growing spinach is anywhere between 6.4 and 6.8. Avoid planting in very acidic soils. It is best to conduct a soil test and add dolomite lime if required. Plants in acidic soils are slow in growth with yellowing and browning leaves. Excessive acidity can also kill plants.

Sowing Time

• Being a cool-season vegetable, spinach is usually the first and last crop of the season. Sow seeds as soon as the ground is workable in early spring. In wet soil, sprinkle seeds over planting area and cover with dry soil or potting soil. Continue planting for successive weeks for uninterrupted harvesting. For summer or fall planting, chill seeds for one to two weeks in the refrigerator prior to planting. Avoid sites in direct, hot sun as this can scorch plants.

Planting Tips

• Sow spinach seeds at a depth of ½ to ¾ inch using 12 to 15 seeds per foot in a row. When plants are about an inch tall, thin to 2 to 4 inches between plants. Recommended row spacing is 12 inches. Firm the soil well over the seed to speed up germination. Water regularly as spinach has a regular water requirement. Keep soil moist at all times with an inch of water every seven to 10 days.