54 Spinach and Other Greens 



low ridges or beds 6 to 9 feet wide, to secure perfect sur- 

 face drainage. Lengthwise in these beds the spinach is 

 sown in rows about 12 inches apart, the distance depend- 

 ing on the means employed for tillage; in some cases, 

 18 inches is left between the rows, and in other cases 

 only 8 inches. The distance between the plants, after 

 thinning, is usually 4 or 5 inches. The plants should 

 become thoroughly established before winter, having made 



Spinach at good edible stage (X 1/3)* 



a spread of leaves of three or four inches at least. The 

 crop is usually left uncovered in the North, even as far 

 north as New York State ; although if material is at hand, 

 it may be covered lightly with straw or' litter to prevent 

 heaving and thawing. On the first opening of spring the 

 spinach resumes growth. In fact, in mild seasons it may 

 grow throughout most of the winter. It should be ready 

 for use in April and May, and be off the ground early in 

 June, even in the Northern States, leaving the land for 



