New Zealand Spinach Growing Guide

New Zealand spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides), also known as perpetual spinach, is a rare plant that offers an excellent alternative to traditional spinach. It is prized for its ability to grow in warm climates, making it a perfect choice for times when regular spinach does not thrive. In addition, its tender, flavorful leaves are ideal for salads, stir-fries and other culinary preparations.

These seeds are open pollinated, which means you can harvest your own seeds and continue to grow year after year. In addition, they are organic seeds, which promotes a sustainable and chemical-free garden.

Plant characteristics and history

Unlike the common spinach, New Zealand spinach is a perennial plant in warm climates, making it an ideal choice for regions where summers are long and hot. Native to New Zealand, Australia and Japan, this plant was introduced to Europe in the 18th century and has gained popularity for its resistance to heat.

Its growth is creeping, so it can cover large areas of the orchard, and its fleshy and triangular leaves are very nutritious, rich in vitamins A and C.

When and how to plant?

New Zealand spinach is preferably sown in spring, once temperatures start to rise, as it prefers warm climates. The seeds have a hard outer coating, so it is advisable to soak them in water for a few hours before sowing.

Sow the seeds 1-2 cm deep, keeping a distance of about 30 cm between each plant, as they tend to expand.

Care during growth

This plant is very heat tolerant and prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Although New Zealand spinach is drought tolerant, regular watering will ensure more tender and abundant leaves. It is also advisable to apply organic compost during the growing season to ensure a healthy crop.

How and when to harvest

New Zealand spinach can be harvested continuously throughout the season. The tender leaves are perfect for eating fresh or cooked. Simply cut off the youngest leaves and stems, and the plant will continue to produce more.

Harvesting can begin as early as 8 weeks after planting, and the plant will continue to produce until autumn.

Most common diseases and pests

Although it is a fairly hardy plant, New Zealand Spinach can be affected by some pests such as:

• Aphids (Aphididae)
• Leafminer (Liriomyza spp.)

To control these pests in an environmentally friendly manner, the use of natural predators such as ladybugs or products such as neem oil is recommended. In addition, it is important to keep the area free of weeds and ensure good ventilation between plants.

Differences with other spinach varieties

Unlike common spinach, New Zealand spinach does not flower or become bitter quickly in hot climates, making it ideal for summer. In addition, its ability to spread by covering the ground makes it an excellent choice for use as a ground cover in the vegetable garden.

Where to Buy Organic New Zealand Spinach Seeds

You can purchase these rare and organic New Zealand Spinach seeds from our online store. They are open pollinated and organic seeds, which means you will be supporting sustainable and chemical free agriculture.

Information note: Bulk fertilizers for professionals and small farmers

If you are an agricultural professional or a small farmer interested in bulk fertilizers for this crop or others, please contact us through espana@semillasvivas.bio. We will be pleased to advise you and offer you tailor-made solutions.