Growing spinach indoors
Having a backyard garden is one of the best parts of summer, but what happens when summer is over? How can you enjoy fresh produce when it’s cold out? By growing spinach indoors!
Gardening 101 doesn’t just happen outside during the warmer months; it continues year-round with indoor options. Let’s see how easy it is to enjoy spinach year-round.
Eating fresh greens in delicious summer salads is something I love. And for the longest time, I could only enjoy them in the summer months. Luckily many advancements have been made with gardening, and you can now grow quite a bit inside your home even while the snow is falling outside.
Growing spinach indoors is a great way to keep a steady supply of leafy greens in your diet. Whether you live in a small apartment or have plenty of outdoor space, indoor growing is a flexible, customizable option for any homesteader.
Is growing spinach indoors complicated?
Not at all; it’s actually easier than many people realize. Growing spinach indoors is actually quite simple and rewarding. With the right supplies and techniques, you can have a thriving indoor spinach crop in no time.
How to Grow Spinach Indoors
Container gardening is ideal for indoor spinach growing. You can use containers made of any material, from plastic to clay to metal. Just be sure to choose a container that provides enough space for the spinach to grow and has ample draining for healthier roots. Since spinach roots need room to spread out, you may need to transplant the spinach if it should outgrow its original container.
What does spinach need good drainage?
No matter which container you choose, it is important to ensure there is ample drainage for excess water to escape. Root systems that sit in over wet soil continuously can lead to fungus and root rot.
Hydroponics for Growing Spinach
Hydroponics, or growing plants in water, is another option for indoor spinach growing. This method requires a bit more setup but is more efficient and can produce higher yields. To grow spinach hydroponically, you’ll need a hydroponic system and nutrient-rich water. Look for hydroponic kits online or at your local gardening store.
Hydroponic Growing Options for Indoors
- Table Top Hydroponics Growing System
- Free-Standing Hydroponics Growing System
- Indoor Large Hydroponics Growing System
Lighting
Spinach needs plenty of light to grow. You can use natural light or artificial light sources like grow lights. If you’re using natural light, place your spinach near a sunny window. Spinach needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If you’re using grow lights, choose ones that emit full-spectrum light for optimal growth. Position the lights about six inches from the plants and keep them on for 14-16 hours per day.
Watering
When it comes to watering spinach, it’s important to strike a balance between over-watering and under-watering. Spinach needs moist soil, but not soil that’s soaked through. Water your spinach when the soil feels dry to the touch. Use a watering can or spray bottle to gently water the soil, taking care not to splash water on the leaves. To avoid leaf rot, consider using a watering probe to check the moisture of the soil.
Harvest
Spinach grows quickly! In just 40 days, you’ll be able to harvest your first crop of indoor-grown spinach. Simply snip off the outermost leaves when they reach a few inches in length. Leave the inner leaves to continue growing.
Storage
To store spinach, wrap it in a clean, damp cloth and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze spinach in freezer bags to enjoy later. Frozen spinach can be used in smoothies, soups, stews, and more.
Spinach is one of the most versatile leafy greens out there. Use it in salads, sandwiches, wraps, sautés, and omelets. Add it to your favorite pasta dishes, or use it as a substitute for basil in pesto. Spinach is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a superfood that should be part of any healthy diet.
Growing spinach indoors is a simple, rewarding project for any homesteader. With the right containers, lighting, and watering techniques, you can grow delicious, nutritious spinach all year round. Harvest, store, and use your spinach in a variety of ways to keep your meals fresh and healthy. Once you’ve got the hang of growing spinach indoors, try experimenting with other crops to create a thriving indoor garden.
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