Introduction
Perpetual spinach, also known as leaf beet, is a hardy and versatile green that offers a continuous harvest throughout much of the year. It is easier to grow than true spinach and is well-suited to the climate of the southeast UK, making it a staple in many home gardens.
Why grow perpetual spinach?
Perpetual spinach is nutrient-dense, providing vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Growing your own ensures a fresh supply of greens that can be harvested continually, reducing the need for store-bought produce. It’s also relatively low-maintenance and resistant to bolting, unlike true spinach.
Suitability for different growing environments
Perpetual spinach thrives in various growing conditions. It can be grown in the ground, raised beds, or large containers. It prefers a sunny spot but can tolerate partial shade, making it versatile for different garden layouts.
Lifecycle
Perpetual spinach is a biennial plant usually grown as an annual. It is sown in spring or late summer and can be harvested from spring until the first frosts. In milder regions, it can even overwinter, providing greens in the early spring of the following year.
Sowing and harvesting periods
- Sowing: Early spring (March to May) or late summer (July to September)
- Harvesting: Spring to early winter (April to December)
Recommended varieties
Popular varieties of perpetual spinach include:
- ‘Perpetual Spinach’
- ‘Fordhook Giant’
- ‘Bright Lights’ (for a more colourful variety)
How to sow
Sow seeds directly into the ground or containers from March to May for a spring crop or from July to September for a late-season crop. Plant seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep and 12 inches (30 cm) apart in rows spaced 12 inches (30 cm) apart. Water well after sowing.
How to prick out/pot on
When sowing seeds indoors, transplant seedlings when they have at least two true leaves. Space them 12 inches (30 cm) apart in their final growing position, ensuring they have enough room to develop fully.
Where to plant
Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Improve the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to provide a nutrient-rich environment for the plants.
How many to plant (spacing)
Space plants 12 inches (30 cm) apart in rows 12 inches (30 cm) apart. This spacing allows each plant enough room to grow and makes harvesting easier.
How to plant
Plant perpetual spinach seedlings or direct-sown seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep in well-prepared soil. Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the plants. If starting indoors, harden off the seedlings for a week before transplanting them outside.
Protecting your plants
Young plants can be susceptible to slugs and snails. Use organic slug pellets or barriers to protect them. In colder weather, cover plants with cloches or fleece to provide extra warmth and protect them from frost.
How to feed and water
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Feed perpetual spinach with a balanced fertiliser every few weeks to encourage healthy growth.
How to propagate, prune/manage while growing
Perpetual spinach is propagated by seed. Pruning is not necessary, but regular harvesting of outer leaves encourages continuous growth. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.
How and when to harvest
Start harvesting when the plants are about 6 inches (15 cm) tall. Pick the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more leaves and prolongs the harvest period.
How to store
Perpetual spinach is best eaten fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store longer, blanch the leaves in boiling water for a minute, then cool in ice water and freeze.
How to eat/cook
Perpetual spinach can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed, steamed, or added to soups and stews. Its flavour is similar to true spinach but slightly earthier. It can be used as a substitute for spinach in most recipes.
How to deal with pests and disease
Common pests include slugs, snails, and aphids. Use organic methods such as handpicking, barriers, and natural predators to control pests. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases like downy mildew.
When and how to remove the plants
Remove plants when they start to decline, usually in late autumn or early winter. Pull up the entire plant, roots and all, and compost if they are disease-free. Prepare the bed for the next crop by adding compost or manure.
What to plant before and after
Perpetual spinach can follow crops like peas, beans, or early potatoes that help improve soil structure and fertility. After perpetual spinach, consider planting legumes like peas or beans to help replenish nitrogen levels in the soil. Alternatively, plant winter-hardy vegetables like kale or winter lettuce.
What to interplant with
Good companion plants for perpetual spinach include radishes, carrots, and onions. These plants help deter pests and do not compete heavily for nutrients. Avoid planting with members of the brassica family, as they can attract similar pests.