Spinach Seeds: New Zealand

New Zealand spinach is a warm-season alternative to regular spinach that does well in hot, dry conditions. A branching plant comprised of trailing, soft stems enveloped in small leaves averaging 5 to 10 centimeters in length. Leaves should be harvested frequently to encourage new, lush growth. Cut the tips and eat raw or cooked. 

New Zealand spinach is an heirloom species native to Australia and New Zealand. The plant was prevalent as a food source among the Maori people in New Zealand and became famous when European explorers first wrote about it in the late 18th century. Despite its name, New Zealand spinach is not related to common spinach and was given this descriptor for its similarity in flavor to spinach.

Soak seeds in water for 24 hours prior to planting to hasten germination. Seeds take up to 2 or 3 weeks to emerge and do not emerge uniformly. Seedlings can be transplanted when they are 1-2 inches tall. 50-70 days.

Heirloom
Non-GMO