Spinach - Viroflay

Viroflay Spinach - This heirloom spinach has been grown in the US since 1866. Prior to this, its origins can be found in France. A fast growing plant, it reaches maturity in 50 days making it a good candidate for fall planting to squeeze in an extra harvest before the frost comes. Planting Tips - Start planting seeds outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked. This is a cool weather vegetable. Thin when the leaves reach 3 inches in height. At this point, leaves can be used as microgreens. Cutting away the outer leaves first, allows for a continuous harvest until the hot weather arrives. Be sure you don’t cut it too low. Leaving about 2 inches of growth to encourage continued bloom. Seed Planting Depth - ½ inch, Seed Spacing - 6 seeds/foot, Days to Germination - 4-9 days, Plant spacing after thinning - 2 inches, Row spacing - 12 inches, Plant height - 12 inches. A second sowing in late summer will yield a fall harvest.

Saving Seeds: Plants should be harvested when ⅔ of the seeds are mature. Run hands along stocks with a bucket placed below to catch seeds as they fall. Discard stripped stalks. Once seeds are detached, rub between hands to break up clusters. Use a small sieve to sift out debris. Seeds can be stored in a cool dry place for up to 6 years.