When to Plant Spinach for Spring, Fall, and Winter Gardens
Spinach is a cool-season green that thrives when planted in the right season. By timing your planting for spring, fall, or even winter, you can enjoy tender, flavorful leaves for much of the year.
Spring Planting
Plant spinach in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Ideal soil temperature for germination is 45°F to 68°F. In most regions, sow seeds 4–6 weeks before the average last frost date. Cover seeds lightly with soil and keep evenly moist. Early planting ensures spinach matures before warm weather causes bolting.
Fall Planting
For fall harvests, plant spinach in late summer to early fall—6–8 weeks before your first expected frost. Fall-grown spinach often tastes sweeter as cool nights enhance flavor. Mulching around plants helps moderate soil temperature and protect roots.
Winter Planting
In mild climates or with protection such as cold frames, hoop houses, or row covers, you can plant spinach in late fall for winter harvests. Choose cold-hardy varieties like ‘Bloomsdale’ or ‘Giant Winter.’ In very cold zones, fall-planted spinach can overwinter under cover and resume growth in early spring.
Tips for Success
- Spinach prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during germination.
- Harvest outer leaves first to encourage continued growth.
With careful timing, spinach can be one of the earliest greens on your spring table and one of the last in your winter garden.
Spinach Planting Calendar by USDA Hardiness Zone
| USDA Zone | Spring Planting | Fall Planting | Winter Planting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–4 | Mid April – Early May | Early August – Late August | Not recommended (too cold) |
| 5 | Early April – Mid April | Early August – Early September | Late September under cover |
| 6 | Late March – Early April | Mid August – Mid September | Mid–Late September under cover |
| 7 | Mid March – Late March | Early September – Late September | October under cover |
| 8 | Early March – Mid March | Mid September – Early October | October – November under cover |
| 9 | Late February – Early March | Late September – Mid October | November – December under cover |
| 10–11 | January – February | October – November | December – January |
Notes:
For winter crops, use cold frames, hoop houses, or row covers; choose cold-hardy varieties like ‘Bloomsdale Long Standing.’
For spring crops, sow seeds as soon as soil is workable and temperatures are cool.
For fall crops, time planting so spinach matures in cool weather.
