New Zealand spinach is a fascinating works that is often mistaken for a true spinach plant , but it actually belongs to a unlike botanic family . While it may share some law of similarity with rightful spinach , such as its leafy green appearance and nutritional benefits , there are some distinct differences that set it apart .
One key dispute is the growing habit of New Zealand Spinacia oleracea . Unlike true spinach , which typically has an upright growth habit , New Zealand spinach has a nanus and trailing habit . This means that it run to circulate out and sprawl along the dry land , rather than growing in an upright manner . This can be both a welfare and a challenge for gardeners , as it can create a lush and cascade force in a garden , but it also call for some direction to prevent it from take over other plants .
To advance bushiness in New Zealand spinach , it is important to nip out the develop pointedness . This means removing the tip of the plant , which helps to get the growth of side shoots and create a more compact and shaggy-coated plant . This can be done by simply using your fingerbreadth to nip off the top of the flora , or by using pruners or scissors to snip off the tip .
Another important consideration when turn New Zealand Spinacia oleracea is its hoar sensitivity . Unlike honest prickly-seeded spinach , which is quite hardy and can tolerate frost , New Zealand Spinacia oleracea is not frost hardy . This means that it is best to seed the seeds from May to August , when the risk of infection of frost is low-down . If you live in a cold climate , it may be necessary to pop the seeds indoors and transplant them outside once the danger of hoarfrost has passed .
In condition of cultivation , New Zealand spinach can be grown in a similar way to honest spinach . It prefers well - drained territory and a sunny location , although it can bear some partial wraith . It is important to keep the land consistently moist , as New Zealand spinach does not tolerate drouth well . Regular tearing and mulching can help to conserve moisture and boost healthy growth .
In my personal experience , I have found New Zealand spinach plant to be a versatile and yummy addition to the garden . Its trail habit makes it a big option for give ear baskets or container , where it can pour forth over the sharpness and create a lush and attractive display . The leaves have a more or less different sapidity compared to true Spinacia oleracea , with a slimly sourish and gross gustatory perception . I have enjoy using it in salad , stir - youngster , and even in smoothies for a nutritious boost .
While New Zealand spinach may not be a true spinach , it is a unequalled and valuable accession to any garden . Its tag habit and need for pinching out the growing point require some management , but the rewards of its lush foliage and tasty leaves make it well deserving the effort . Whether you are a seasoned nurseryman or a beginner , I would extremely advocate giving New Zealand prickly-seeded spinach a effort in your garden .
Caroline Bates
