Spinach

Spinacia oleracea

MediumVegetable30-45 days
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Overview

Spinach is an excellent crop for NFT systems due to its short growth cycle and compact stature. However, it is more susceptible to root rot (Pythium) than lettuce and prone to bolting (flowering) in temperatures above 24°C. Success in NFT depends heavily on keeping the nutrient solution cool and well-oxygenated.

Growing Requirements

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pH Range

5.5 - 6.5

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EC Range

1 - 1.6 mS/cm

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TDS Range

500 - 800 ppm

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Temperature

10°C - 21°C

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Light Requirement

Medium (12 hours/day)

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Nutrient Needs

High Nitrogen for leaf growthCalcium to prevent tip burnMagnesiumIron

Growth Timeline

1

Germination

5-10 days

Seeds benefit from cold stratification in the fridge before planting. Germinate in a cool environment; high heat inhibits germination.

2

Seedling

10-14 days

Once true leaves appear, transplant into the NFT system. Ensure roots touch the nutrient film but are not submerged to the stem to prevent damping off.

3

Vegetative Growth

14-21 days

Rapid leaf expansion occurs. Monitor reservoir temperature closely. Leaves are ready for baby leaf harvest early in this stage.

Common Issues & Solutions

Pythium (Root Rot)

Symptoms:
  • Brown, slimy roots
  • Stunted growth
  • Wilting despite water availability
Causes:
  • Reservoir temperatures above 21°C
  • Low dissolved oxygen in NFT channels
Solutions:
  • Use a water chiller
  • Add beneficial bacteria (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens)
  • Ensure adequate flow rate

Bolting

Symptoms:
  • Vertical stalk growth
  • Production of flowers
  • Bitter taste
Causes:
  • High temperatures
  • Light cycles longer than 13-14 hours
Solutions:
  • Maintain ambient temperature below 21°C
  • Reduce light hours to 10-12 hours
  • Harvest immediately if stalk appears

Tip Burn

Symptoms:
  • Browning on the edges of young leaves
Causes:
  • Calcium deficiency
  • High humidity preventing transpiration
  • Stagnant air
Solutions:
  • Increase airflow over the canopy
  • Check pH to ensure Calcium uptake
  • Lower humidity

Harvesting Guide

When to Harvest

Harvest baby greens as early as 3-4 weeks, or wait for full maturity at 5-6 weeks. Harvest before the plant begins to bolt.

How to Harvest

For NFT, you can harvest outer leaves individually (cut-and-come-again) to extend the life of the plant, or harvest the entire rosette by cutting at the base near the net cup.

Storage Tips

Wash and dry thoroughly. Store in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture in the refrigerator at 1-3°C.

Expected Yield

High; approximately 0.2-0.3 kg per plant depending on variety and harvest method.

Photo Gallery

Spinach - Image 1
Spinach - Image 2
Spinach - Image 3

User Reviews

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