Quote:
Originally Posted by BigVanVader
Why not start a landrace Spinach? I'd start with some commercial hybrids mixed with OPs. You would also likely have better success with spinach already bred for organic conditions. Like the ones at Wild Garden seeds or Adaptive seeds. Their seeds will germinate much better than typical store bought spinach. There are several tricks to getting a good stand of spinach, I can go in to more detail if you want to try this option.
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I get the landrace thought, but it's not something I really want to embark on right now. I've got some tomato and squash breeding projects that take up some time in addition to the gardening time. I also rotate space through the growing season since I grow in a relatively small garden and don't want to lock up the space letting spinach go to seed.
I've trialled many varieties of spinach and really like the variety I grow each year, but the day length and warmth of the summer just make spinach impossible during the summer (I've even tried shade cloth without any success). I'm sure there are some tricks to get a good fall crop--specifically with getting seeds and seedlings to survive August (when they have to be planted up here)--any tips there?