Climate / Temperature: Spinach thrives in a cool climate, with an ideal temperature range of 15-20°C. Higher temperatures can affect its growth negatively.

Water Demand:

Spinach requires moderate water levels. Regular irrigation is necessary to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry weather.

Soil: Spinach can grow in various well-drained soils, but it performs best in sandy loam and alluvial soils. The ideal soil pH for spinach cultivation is between 6 and 7. Avoid acidic or waterlogged soils.

Major Varieties

• Punjab Green: This variety has semi-erect, deep green leaves and is ready for harvesting 30 days after sowing. It yields around 125 quintals per acre with low oxalic acid content.
• Punjab Selection: This variety features light green, thin, long leaves with a slightly tangy taste. The stem is purple, and the average yield is 115 quintals per acre.
• Other Popular Varieties: Pusa Jyoti, Pusa Palak, Pusa Harit, and Pusa Bharti.

Field Preparation:

The field should be plowed 3-5 times to soften the soil. After plowing, use a harrow to level the soil and prepare beds for sowing. Irrigate the field before sowing.

Sowing of Crops: Spinach can be sown almost year-round, but the ideal sowing time is between August and December.

• Spacing: Maintain 20 cm between rows and 5 cm between plants.
• Seed Depth: Sow the seeds 3-4 cm deep.
• Sowing Method: Seeds can be sown in rows or broadcasted.

Suitable Time of Sowing: The best sowing period for spinach is between August and December for optimal growth and yield.

Seed Management:

• Seed Requirement: About 4-6 kg of seeds are required per acre.
• Seed Treatment: To enhance germination, soak the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before sowing.

Fertilizer Management:

For good growth and yield, apply 200 quintals of well-decomposed farmyard manure, 32 kg of nitrogen (70 kg urea), and 16 kg of phosphorus (100 kg superphosphate) per acre. Add all the farmyard manure, phosphorus, and half of the nitrogen before sowing. Apply the remaining nitrogen in two equal portions at each harvest. Irrigate lightly after fertilizer application.

Weed Management: Control weeds by weeding 2-3 times, which also helps aerate the soil. For chemical control, apply 1-1.12 kg of pyrazone per acre. Avoid using herbicides after this point.

Water Management: Soil moisture is essential for seed germination and plant growth. If the soil lacks moisture, irrigate before sowing. In summer, water every 4-6 days, and in winter, every 10-12 days. Avoid over-irrigation and water accumulation on leaves, as this can cause diseases and affect quality. Drip irrigation is highly beneficial for spinach cultivation.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Aphids: If aphids appear, spray 350 ml of Malathion 50 EC in 80-100 liters of water. Do not harvest the crop for 7 days after spraying.
• Leaf Spot: Small circular spots appear on leaves, brown in the center with red edges. To treat, spray 400 grams of Carbendazim or Indofil M-45 per acre, mixed with 150 liters of water. If necessary, repeat the spray after 15 days.

Harvesting: The first harvest can be done 25-30 days after sowing. Subsequent harvests can be done every 20-25 days. Use a sharp knife or sickle for cutting.

Crop Cycle: Spinach has a crop cycle of around 25-30 days, allowing for multiple harvests in a growing season.

Seed Production: For seed production, maintain spacing of 50 cm x 30 cm between plants. Ensure a distance of at least 1000 meters between spinach fields for quality seed production. Remove diseased plants and those with leaf variations. Harvest the crop when seeds turn brown and let the plants dry in the field for about a week. After drying, thresh the plants to collect the seeds.

Disease Prevention: To prevent diseases, avoid waterlogging, manage pests promptly, and use treated seeds. Regular monitoring and appropriate fungicide application can help control potential outbreaks.