Bloomsdale Long Standing
The Bloomsdale Long Standing variety of spinach is a popular heirloom variety known for its dark
green, crinkled leaves and excellent flavor. It’s a versatile spinach variety that performs well in both spring and fall plantings.
The Bloomsdale Long Standing variety of spinach is a popular heirloom variety known for its dark
green, crinkled leaves and excellent flavor. It’s a versatile spinach variety that performs well in both spring and fall plantings.
Description
The Bloomsdale Long Standing variety of spinach is a popular heirloom variety known for its dark
green, crinkled leaves and excellent flavor. It’s a versatile spinach variety that performs well in both spring and fall plantings.
Planting instructions:
To plant Bloomsdale Long Standing spinach:
1. **Timing:** Spinach is a cool-season crop, so it’s best to plant it in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall harvest. It prefers cooler temperatures and will bolt (go to seed) in hot weather.
2. **Site Selection:** Choose a location in your garden that receives partial to full sun. Spinach can tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates. Ensure the soil is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter.
3. **Soil Preparation:** Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility. Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0.
4. **Planting Seeds:** Sow Bloomsdale Long Standing spinach seeds directly into the garden bed, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. Plant the seeds ½ to ¾ inch (1.3-1.9 cm) deep, and cover lightly with soil.
5. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season. Spinach has shallow roots and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.
6. **Fertilization:** Spinach is a heavy feeder, so side-dress the plants with a balanced fertilizer once they have developed their first true leaves. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application rates.
7. **Thinning:** Once the spinach seedlings emerge, thin them to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) apart to allow room for the plants to grow and develop healthy leaves.
8. **Pest and Disease Control:** Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and leaf miners, and treat them promptly with organic methods or insecticidal soap if necessary. Spinach is relatively resistant to diseases but may suffer from fungal infections in wet conditions.
9. **Harvesting:** Bloomsdale Long Standing spinach can be harvested when the leaves are large enough to eat, typically around 6-8 weeks after planting. Harvest by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
By following these planting instructions, you can grow a bountiful crop of Bloomsdale Long Standing spinach and enjoy its fresh, nutritious leaves throughout the growing season
