Spinach like plants (Leafy goosefoot)

Plant family

Fuchsschwanzgewächse (Amaranthaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Light (sandy)

Nutrient requirement

Low

Plant distance

15 cm

Row spacing

25 cm

Seeding depth

2 cm

Instructions

Description

Strawberry spinach, which belongs to the family of foxtail (Amaranthaceae), in the summer forms attractive inflorescences of small strawberry-like fruits. Harvest the fruit in August, but little flavor. Not a cross between strawberry and spinach. The taste of the leaves, reminiscent of arugula, is similar to spinach, intense and spicy, but little yield than spinach.

Growing tips

Germination after 2-3 weeks at 14-18°C. Removing weeds promotes growth. Strawberry spinach is an annual plant, but can be overwintered and normally self-seeds. If the leaves are cut off close to the stem, they can sprout again. It is best to harvest before flowering, as the taste is best then. Use the leaves quickly, as older leaves no longer taste good. Protect plants with fleece or brushwood in winter and when sowing early outdoors.