Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Connections

Spinach (Spinacia Oleracea)

Megrael Ngudia, Undergraduate Research Assistant Marie Merci Uwimbabazi, Graduate Research Assistant Cora Teets, M.S., Research & Extension Associate for Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Theoneste Nzaramyimana, Ph.D., Assistant Professor for Urban Agriculture

Introduction and Background

  • Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is an annual leafy green vegetable belonging to the Amaranthaceae family and is believed to have originated from ancient Persia (University of Missouri, 2020).
  • There are three main spinach types: flat leaf, savoy, and semi-savoy spinach (Colorado State University Extension, 2025).
  • Spinach became popular in North America during the 20th century and was associated with strength through the Popeye cartoon character (University of Missouri, 2020). Spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and can be eaten raw or cooked in many dishes (Cleveland Clinic & AHA, 2024).
  • In 2024, spinach production in the United States totaled approximately 617 million pounds with a crop value of about $545 million (USDA-NASS, 2025)

Growing Spinach in Kentucky

  • Spinach grows best in cool temperatures between 50–60°F (UK, 2021).
  • Plant spinach during spring or fall in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5–7.0 (UK, 2021).
  • Spinach can be grown in pots, raised beds, or open fields with full sunlight to partial shade.
  • Mixing aged compost or organic matter into the soil improves growth (UK, 2021)

Images credits: Agribotix, https://agribotix.com/how-to-harvest-spinach/

Care and Maintainance

  • Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy by watering frequently (UK, 2021).
  • Use water-soluble fertilizers such as fish fertilizer for healthy growth (UK, 2021). Baby spinach can be harvested in 4–6 weeks, while mature leaves are ready in 6–8 weeks (UK, 2021; SSE, 2025).
  • Spinach can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days under ideal conditions (SSE, 2025).

Harvest and Storage

  • Harvest can begin as early as 4 to 6 weeks for baby spinach (young leaves), and 6 to 8 weeks for mature leaves (UK, 2021 & SSE, 2025).
  • Harvest spinach by obtaining the outermost leaves once they are large enough to eat (SSE, 2025).
  • Spinach can be stored in colder areas of the fridge for up to 10 days for ideal condition (SSE, 2025).
  • Avoid storing spinach near ethylene-producing fruits like apples, as this accelerates spoilage.