Spinach plant
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How to Grow Spinach as a Winter Crop: Tips for Cold-Hardy Gardening

ByStephen Albert

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Growing spinach in winter might sound like a challenge, but with the right techniques and varieties, it’s one of the easiest cool-season crops to keep producing during the coldest months. After more than 30 years of growing spinach year-round in my raised beds, I’ve found that a little planning and the right protection can give you fresh, sweet leaves all winter long.

Spinach plant
Spinach plant

Why Spinach Thrives in Cold Weather

Spinach is naturally cold-hardy and can survive temperatures down to 20°F—and even colder with protection. In fact, cold temperatures enhance its flavor, making winter spinach sweeter and more tender than summer-grown crops.

Choosing the Right Winter Spinach Varieties

Select varieties bred for cold tolerance:

  • ‘Bloomsdale Long Standing’ – Classic heirloom with sweet flavor.
  • ‘Giant Winter’ – Very hardy and large-leaved.
  • ‘Tyee’ – Slow to bolt, even in variable winter conditions.

From personal experience, ‘Giant Winter’ thrives even when my garden soil is cold and damp in January, producing steady harvests until spring.

When and How to Plant

  • Timing: Sow seeds 6–8 weeks before your first hard frost. In mild climates, you can plant into late fall.
  • Soil Prep: Use fertile, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
  • Spacing: Plant seeds ½ inch deep, 2 inches apart; thin to 4–6 inches.

I often sow two beds—one in early October and another in mid-November—so I have a staggered winter harvest.

Protecting Spinach Through Winter

  • Row Covers: Lightweight covers help trap heat and shield from frost.
  • Cold Frames: Great for consistent harvests during freezing nights.
  • Mulch: A thick layer of straw keeps roots insulated.

One winter, I kept spinach alive through several nights in the teens simply by layering a floating row cover under my cold frame lid.

Harvesting Winter Spinach

Harvest outer leaves first, allowing the plant’s center to keep producing. Avoid harvesting when leaves are frozen; wait until they thaw.

Final Thoughts

With the right variety, timing, and protection, spinach is one of the most rewarding winter crops. It’s hardy, sweet, and nutritious—and having fresh greens in January feels like cheating the season.

Winter Spinach Planting & Protection Calendar

USDA ZonePlanting WindowProtection NeededNotes
3–4Mid Aug – Early SeptCold frames + heavy row coversOverwinter as small plants; harvest resumes in spring.
5Late Aug – Mid SeptCold frames or double row coversChoose very hardy varieties; minimal winter harvest, early spring flush.
6Early Sept – Late SeptSingle or double row coversFall sowing gives steady winter harvest in mild winters.
7Late Sept – Early OctLight row coverHarvestable all winter in most years.
8Oct – Mid NovMinimal cover or noneProtect only from extreme cold snaps.
9Nov – Early DecNo cover unless frost forecastWinter harvest possible with mild temperatures.
10–11Dec – JanNo cover neededSpinach grows continuously through winter.

Tips for All Zones:

  • Sow extra seed to allow for slower winter germination.
  • Use mulch to protect roots and moderate soil temperature.
  • Water sparingly in cold weather to prevent root rot.

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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