Spinach plant seeds

Common name: Spinach. Scientific name: Spinacia oleracea. Also called: Esfanaakh. Original habitat: Asia, and it was introduced to Europe in the Middle Ages by Arabs in Sicily. Description of the spinach plant: Spinach belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family, and it is an annual flowering plant. It is considered a herb among leafy vegetables, consisting of a taproot, and it branches extensively on the soil surface. It has simple leaves grouped in a rosette, varying in size, shape, and texture depending on the variety. It reaches a height of about 25-45 cm. Uses and benefits of the spinach plant: It has many medicinal uses. It contains many vitamins and antioxidants. It is added to many types of salads and pies, and it is also eaten boiled. Spinach is a nutritious plant rich in iron. Suitable climate for growing spinach: Spinach is considered a winter crop. It tolerates low temperatures and frost. It does not tolerate high temperatures. Suitable soil for growing spinach: Spinach is grown in all types of well-ventilated and well-drained soils. It prefers light sandy soil. A mixture of sandy soil with 20% clayey soil is preferred, and adding organic fertilizer up to 15% is recommended. Method of propagating spinach: Spinach propagates through seeds. Appropriate time for planting spinach: Spinach is planted in the cold months of the year. It is preferred to plant spinach a month or slightly more before the start of the spring season. Method of planting spinach: It is important to choose sunny locations, and spinach can be cultivated in home gardens and agricultural beds (containers). 1. It is preferable to soak the seeds in warm water for 6-10 hours and dry them before planting. 2. The soil should be well-tilled to a depth of 30 cm, removing stones and debris. 3. It is preferred to mix organic fertilizer with the soil at a ratio not exceeding 20%. 4. Place the seeds in rows, leaving about 20-30 cm between rows and about 7-10 cm between seeds. 5. Cover the seeds with soil no more than 2 cm deep, preferably sandy soil. 6. Water by spraying gently, as strong water pressure can displace the seeds. 7. When temperatures exceed 25°C, it is preferable to cover the soil with shading mesh (Borklin) or any fabric that performs the same role, ensuring not to block sunlight.