The use of pesticides and chemicals in green vegetables available in the market is continuously increasing. In such a situation, health conscious people are now giving priority to growing vegetables at home. Spinach is a vegetable which does not require a large garden or land to grow. You can have fresh and organic spinach in 30 to 40 days on your home’s balcony or terrace with very little space and simple care.

How to grow organic and fresh spinach in home balcony: Know pot, soil and secret tips

Choosing the right pot and soil

Spinach’s roots do not go very deep into the ground. Therefore, it does not require a very deep pot. A pot or grow bag with 6 to 8 inches depth and wide mouth is most suitable. It is very important to have a drainage hole in the bottom of the pot so that water does not accumulate.

When preparing the soil it is necessary to maintain a balance:

• 50% normal garden soil: To support the plant.
• 30% Cocopeat: To retain moisture and keep the soil light.
• 20% cowdung manure or vermicompost: To provide necessary nutrition to the plant.

Correct method of sowing seeds and irrigation

Take good quality spinach seeds and sprinkle them evenly on the surface of the prepared soil. Don’t press the seeds too deep into the soil; It is sufficient to spread a light layer of soil or coco peat over the seeds. If the depth is too deep, the seeds cannot germinate.

While irrigating, keep in mind that in the initial days use only spray bottle (shower). When water is poured at high speed from a mug or pipe, the seeds move out of their place. There should always be slight moisture in the soil, but avoid waterlogging.

Sunlight and harvesting method

Spinach requires 3 to 4 hours of bright sunlight a day to thrive. The plant should be protected from extremely strong and scorching sunlight. Keep the pot in a place where filtered sunlight comes.

Spinach leaves are ready to harvest within about 30 to 40 days after sowing the seeds. While harvesting, do not uproot the plant. Cut off only the larger leaves on the outside using scissors or a knife. Give the small leaves in the middle a chance to grow, so you will get fresh leaves again and again.

Tips for citizens

If you are into gardening for the first time, spinach is the easiest option to start with. Consuming pesticide-free and fresh leaves is not only beneficial for health, but it also improves the environment of the house.