Viroflay Spinach Seed

Sowing: Spinach thrives in cooler climates and can tolerate sub-zero temperatures when adequately protected. It's best to sow Viroflay spinach seeds as soon as the soil becomes workable in spring, or in late summer for a fall harvest. In regions with milder winters, spinach can be grown throughout the winter months. Plant the seeds in well-prepared soil, sowing them 1.3 centimeters deep and spacing them 5 centimeters apart in rows spaced 30-45 centimeters apart. Later, thin out the seedlings to a spacing of 10-20 centimeters apart to promote healthy growth. To ensure a continuous supply, sow additional seeds every 10 days until the onset of summer heat, as spinach seeds become dormant at temperatures above 27-29 degrees Celsius. Spinach thrives in partial shade and can be planted beneath taller plants such as corn or pole beans.

Growing: To prevent weed growth and protect the spinach roots from disturbance, apply a layer of mulch around the plants. Maintain soil moisture levels, ensuring it remains consistently moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to bolting. Provide shade if temperatures rise above 27-29 degrees Celsius.

Harvesting: Harvest spinach leaves as soon as they reach a suitable size for consumption. If harvesting individual leaves, prioritize larger ones from the outer part of the plant. Alternatively, harvest the entire plant by cutting it at ground level to encourage new growth. Even if the plant bolts and produces a flower stalk, the leaves can still be used, albeit with a stronger flavor.

Seed Saving: Since spinach easily cross-pollinates with other varieties, it may be necessary to isolate plants to maintain genetic purity. For optimal genetic diversity, save seeds from 15-20 plants, avoiding those that bolt early or exhibit negative traits. Mature seed pods develop after the leaves turn yellow. Handle the prickly pods with care, either removing them or leaving them intact for planting. Store Viroflay spinach seeds in a cool, dry place for up to three years.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor, Hydroponics
Blooming Season: Viroflay Spinach, renowned for its cool-season hardiness, typically doesn't produce conspicuous blooms. Instead, its focus lies in lush foliage, offering an abundant harvest of vibrant, green leaves. While it doesn't have a traditional blooming season, the peak harvest time is generally during the cooler months of spring and fall when temperatures are favorable.
Planting Season: Early Spring and Late Summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Spinacia oleracea/ 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 25-30 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Viroflay Spinach Seeds after the test date varies but generally maintains viability for 1-3 years if stored correctly. To ensure optimal germination rates, store seeds in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Regularly testing a small sample for germination can help gauge seed viability over time.
Seed Type: Heirloom, Non-GMO
Soil Type: Loam Soil