Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Spinach grows best in cooler temperatures, so a spot with afternoon shade in warmer climates can be beneficial.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Spinach thrives in soil rich in organic matter, so amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

When to Plant: Bloomsdale Long Standing Spinach is a cool-season crop that can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. In regions with mild winters, it can also be grown throughout the winter. Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, or 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost date for a fall crop.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season. Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they are a few inches tall to allow enough space for the plants to develop.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Spinach has shallow roots and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure even moisture. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and keep the soil cool.

Fertilization: Spinach benefits from a nutrient-rich soil but does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. If the leaves appear pale or growth slows, side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Spinach is sensitive to heat, and mulch can help keep the soil cool. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the spinach.

Pest and Disease Management: Spinach can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, leaf miners, and slugs. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, diatomaceous earth, or hand-picking to manage infestations. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like downy mildew and leaf spot.

When to Harvest: Bloomsdale Long Standing Spinach is typically ready to harvest 40-50 days after planting. Harvest the outer leaves as needed for a "cut-and-come-again" approach, or wait until the entire plant is mature. Spinach is best harvested in the morning when the leaves are cool and crisp.

How to Harvest: For baby spinach, start harvesting when the leaves reach 3-4 inches in length. For mature spinach, wait until the leaves are 6-8 inches long. Cut the outer leaves at the base, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Alternatively, you can harvest the entire plant by cutting it off at the soil level.

Storing Fresh Spinach: Freshly harvested spinach can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wash the leaves and dry them thoroughly before storing in a plastic bag or container with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Spinach can also be blanched and frozen for longer storage.

Culinary Uses: Bloomsdale Long Standing Spinach is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is perfect for fresh salads, smoothies, sautéing, steaming, or adding to soups and stews. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a favorite for both raw and cooked dishes.