Introduction
- Bloomsdale spinach is a classic heirloom variety known for its thick, crinkled leaves and rich, sweet flavor. It thrives in our county’s cool seasons and is an excellent choice for both fresh salads and cooked dishes. In our part of California, spinach grows best in fall, winter, and early spring, when mild temperatures help it produce tender leaves without bolting.
Quick Facts
- Type: Cool-season annual
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Harvest Season: Fall, winter, early spring
- Sun Requirements: Full sun in winter; partial shade in late spring to delay bolting
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter
- Water Needs: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; mulch helps conserve moisture and keep soil cool
Planting Guide
When to Plant
- Direct seed in September–November for a fall crop, and January–February for a spring crop.
- Avoid sowing in hot weather; high heat quickly triggers bolting.
Where to Plant
- Select a sunny location for fall/winter crops.
- For spring crops, choose a spot with afternoon shade or use shade cloth to keep plants cool.
- Works well in raised beds and containers at least 8″ deep.
How to Plant
- Sow seeds ½ inch deep and 1–2 inches apart in rows spaced 12–18 inches apart.
- Thin to 3–4 inches apart for full-sized leaves, or leave closer together for baby-leaf harvests.
- Mix in plenty of compost before planting to support rapid growth.
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination (7–14 days).
Care & Maintenance
Watering
- Regular, even moisture helps prevent bitterness.
Fertilizing
- Side-dress with compost or apply a balanced organic fertilizer when plants are 3–4 inches tall.
Bolting
- As days lengthen and temperatures rise, Bloomsdale spinach will send up flower stalks. Harvest promptly when you see signs of bolting.
Pests & Problems
- Watch for leaf miners—look for winding white trails on leaves. Remove affected leaves and use floating row covers to prevent adult flies from laying eggs. Aphids can appear in spring—wash off with a strong spray of water or treat with insecticidal soap.
Harvesting
- Begin harvesting baby leaves when they are 2–3 inches long, or allow plants to reach 6–8 inches for full-sized leaves.
- Use the “cut-and-come-again” method: cut outer leaves at the base, allowing the center to keep producing.
- Harvest early in the day for best flavor and texture.
Lifecycle & Reseeding
- Bloomsdale spinach is an annual, not a self-seeder in our climate.
- For a steady supply, sow new seeds every 2–3 weeks from September through February.
Wildlife & Companion Benefits
- Pairs well with radishes, carrots, and lettuce in companion planting—its leafy growth shades the soil, helping keep roots cool for neighbors.
- Avoid planting with potatoes or fennel.
Extra Tips
- For winter planting, choose a site that gets maximum sun exposure to speed growth.
- In spring, use shade cloth once temperatures approach 75°F to extend harvests.
- For leaf miner prevention, cover plants with row cover immediately after sowing and keep it on until harvest.
Where to Get Seeds
