Growing NZ Spinach, also Warrigal greens

Tetragonia expansa : Aizoaceae / the fig-marigold family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
        T              
        P              

(Best months for growing NZ Spinach in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 64°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 18 - 24 inches apart
  • Harvest in 8-10 weeks. Pick the tips.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Does better if alone.

Your comments and tips

12 May 10, Bryan Clark (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
New Zealand Spinach grows well in Alice Springs, but I am finding it difficult to obtain seed for same in Australia.
13 May 10, Grahame (Australia - temperate climate)
Eden seeds have NZ spinach seed (Warragul greens is the other name).
23 Sep 10, Jay (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Thanks Grahame, I so love that people are commenting on Eden seeds. Organic seeds are the only ones to buy. GM seeds are a serious threat to the freedom of gardening. only brands that are organic will re-seed properly and grow again and again. We gardeners must maintain the simple right to grow organic, healthy food.
Showing 41 - 43 of 43 comments

I had a lot of trouble germinating my first batch of seeds, got 4 out of about 30. Second try, I used gibberellic acid: soaked a paper towel with 1000 ppm solution, placed into a zip-lock sandwich bag with the seeds. Close to 100% germination after about 4 days. Definitely recommended if you're having trouble getting these guys started, and don't object to using natural, albeit chemical, intervention.

- Lucas

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