WINTER SPINACH

Wairarapa Times-Age, 19 February 1941, Page 3

WINTER SPINACH

A GOOD CROP TO GROW. The prickly or winter spinach is one of the hardiest of vegetables, even in the- severest weather. It is a crop we should all grow on account of its health-giving properties. A few rows can be accommodated on ground that has borne summer vegetables and which would probably remain idle. To keep up a supply trom May until spring, sow now. and again in a month’s time. Ground which has carried peas or beans will be ideal, as it is rich in nitrogen left behind by the roots of those crops. Fork the ground, and after breaking down all lumps and making it fairly firm, rake in some wood ashes. If the! soil should be dry and difficult to get fine, soak it with water at night ana! break down the next day. Make the! drills one inch deep and one foot apart! and. if possible, run them north and south to ensure the maximum light. Sow the seed thinly, covering with fine soil. As soon as the seedlings appear, give one ounce of superphosphate per ( square yard. Thin gradually to six, inches apart, steadying the stems by aj slight earthing up of tine soil, and you' will get a good yield of fine leaves. The! giant variety is excellent, as it has; broad fleshy leaves and does not run. to seed very readilv.