Palak / Spinach Seeds / పాలకూర

Spinach Seeds – Easy to Grow with Excellent Germination

Grow a garden full of nutritious and delicious spinach with our premium-quality spinach seeds! Known for their vibrant green leaves and packed with essential nutrients, spinach is perfect for salads, smoothies, and cooking. Spinach thrives in various climates and grows well in containers or garden beds.

Product Details

• Germination Time: 7–10 days
• Sunlight Requirement: Partial to full sunlight (4–6 hours per day)
• Ideal Climate for Sowing: Spinach grows best in mild weather. It can be sown year-round, but avoid peak summer or extreme winter for optimal growth.
• Plant Height: 6–12 inches
• Fertilizer Requirement: 1–2 cups of compost or decomposed cow dung per plant every 2 weeks
• Life Span: 6–8 weeks for continuous harvest
• Ideal Growing Temperature: 15–25°C
• Harvesting Time: 30–40 days after sowing for baby leaves; 45–60 days for full-size leaves
• Maintenance Required: Low; spinach is a hardy plant that requires moderate care.
• Ideal Container Size: Minimum of 6 inches in height and 12-inch diameter pot or larger for optimal yield

Benefits and Uses of Spinach

Spinach is a superfood packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate, iron, and calcium. Rich in antioxidants and fiber, spinach supports heart health, aids digestion, and strengthens immunity. It's versatile in the kitchen and can be used in various dishes, from salads to soups and smoothies.

Planting and Care for Spinach

Each spinach seed contains a tiny, dormant plant that’s ready to grow. Plant spinach seeds ¼ inch deep in moist soil, but avoid over-watering. Spinach thrives in cooler temperatures and partial shade, making it ideal for early spring or autumn planting.

Sowing Spinach Seeds

1. Preparation: Pre-soaking seeds in lukewarm water for 6–8 hours can speed up germination.
2. Depth: Plant the seeds ¼ inch deep in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
3. Spacing: Sow seeds about 3–4 inches apart for baby leaves and 6–8 inches apart for full-size leaves.
4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, especially during the germination period.

Growing Spinach

• Climate: Spinach prefers cooler temperatures and mild weather.
• Soil Maintenance: Choose loamy soil that holds moisture well and is rich in organic matter.
• Watering: Water moderately, and avoid over-watering to prevent root rot.
• Fertilization: Use an organic growth booster like fish emulsion or compost tea every 2 weeks for vigorous growth.

Harvesting Spinach

Start harvesting baby leaves within 30–40 days, or wait for 45–60 days for mature leaves. Regular harvesting promotes new growth and an extended yield.

Precautions While Growing Spinach

Spinach grows best in slightly acidic to neutral loamy soil with good water retention. The ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 7.5. Avoid overcrowding to improve airflow, reduce the risk of disease, and ensure the leaves remain dry, especially during humid conditions.

Common Problems Affecting Spinach Plants and Solutions

Spinach plants are hardy but can be susceptible to downy mildew, aphids, and leaf miners. Regular inspection, neem oil applications, and good drainage help prevent these issues. Crop rotation and composting also enhance soil health, minimizing recurring problems.

Other Names for Spinach

• Botanical Name: Spinacia oleracea
• Tamil: பசலை (Pachalai)
• Malayalam: ചെറുപയർ (Cheera)
• Kannada: ಪಲಕ್ (Palak)
• Telugu: పాలకూర (Pālakūra)
• Marathi: पालक (Pālaka)
• Hindi: पालक (Pālak)
• Bengali: পালং শাক (Pālaṅ Shāk)

Spinach is a nutrient-dense, easy-to-grow leafy green that’s perfect for a healthy addition to your garden!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take for spinach seeds to germinate?
Spinach seeds typically germinate within 7–10 days, depending on the temperature and soil conditions.

2. When should I plant spinach seeds?
Spinach grows best in cooler temperatures. You can plant seeds in early spring or fall for optimal growth. Avoid planting during peak summer or freezing winter.

3. Can spinach grow in pots or containers?
Yes, spinach grows well in containers. A pot with a minimum 6-inch height and 12-inch diameter is suitable for good yields.

4. How often should I water spinach plants?
Water the plants moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal diseases.

5. What is the best fertilizer for spinach?
Spinach thrives with organic compost or decomposed cow dung, applied every 2 weeks. A balanced organic fertilizer will support healthy leaf growth.