Spinach is a leafy vegetable rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins, in addition to being a great source of fiber, ideal for those seeking a healthy diet. Its hydroponic cultivation is gaining attention for being efficient, sustainable, and productive, both at home and on a large scale.
In this article, you’ll learn how to differentiate between true spinach and common spinach, as well as the best time for planting, harvesting period, essential nutrients, and how Hortivinyl can help ensure successful cultivation.
Common Spinach vs. True Spinach
Common spinach, often referred to as New Zealand spinach, has triangular leaves, ground-covering growth, and easy regrowth. It’s light green and velvety, typically consumed steamed or cooked for better nutrient absorption. Its growing time is longer than true spinach, but once mature, it regrows quickly.
Virofly spinach or true spinach originates from Asia. It has dark green, oval-shaped leaves and upright growth, similar to arugula. It’s mostly consumed raw and contains more iron than common spinach.
Best Time to Plant
Spinach grows best in mild climates, with temperatures between 13°C and 24°C (55°F to 75°F). In Brazil, planting is ideal from March to August in the South and Southeast regions, and from May to September in the North and Northeast.
With hydroponics, greenhouse climate control allows for year-round planting, provided that temperature and lighting are well managed.
Tip: With greenhouses and climate control, you can grow quality spinach year-roun
How Long Does It Take to Harvest Hydroponic Spinach?
Germination: 5 to 10 days
Growth: 25 to 70 days
Harvest: Between 30 and 75 days after planting (depending on variety and environmental conditions)
Fun fact: true spinach has a shorter growing cycle than common spinach, with harvesting possible in around 30 to 35 days.
When to Harvest?
Harvest when the leaves are well developed, but before they grow too large and fibrous. Typically, harvest is done by cutting the leaves at the base, leaving the plant intact so it can regrow and provide multiple harvests.
Systems like NFT allow for faster and more productive harvests — up to 20% quicker than conventional growing.
Best Nutrients for Hydroponic Spinach
For healthy growth, spinach requires a balanced nutrient solution. Key nutrients include:
Nitrogen (N): promotes leaf growth
Potassium (K): strengthens the plant and enhances quality
Calcium (Ca): prevents leaf burn or deformities
Magnesium (Mg) and Iron (Fe): essential for photosynthesis and chlorosis prevention
Ideal Nutrient Solution Parameters:
pH: between 5.8 and 6.5
EC (electrical conductivity): between 1.5 and 2.5 mS/cm
Tip: Use leafy green-specific fertilizers and regularly monitor pH and EC for vigorous growth.
How Can Hortivinyl Help with Your Hydroponic Setup?
Hortivinyl is the ideal partner for efficient, high-quality, and productive hydroponic spinach farming. We offer flexible tanks and efficient irrigation systems that ensure uniform nutrient distribution, secure storage, and easier daily management for growers.
Why choose Hortivinyl?
✔ Durable and high-resistance products
✔ Technology that boosts productivity
✔ Specialized technical support for all types of growers
Looking to build or improve your hydroponic system?
Visit our website and discover how Hortivinyl can transform your cultivation!
