How to Grow and Care for Chinese Spinach Plant

Chinese spinach is a fast-growing, nutritious leafy green ideal for summer gardens. It provides a heat-tolerant alternative to traditional spinach, which often bolts in high temperatures. This ensures a continuous supply of fresh greens throughout the warmest months, making it a rewarding vegetable for growers.

Defining Chinese Spinach

The term “Chinese spinach” most commonly refers to specific varieties of Amaranth, particularly Amaranthus tricolor and Amaranthus dubius. These plants are known by several other names, including yin choy, xian cai, calaloo, and tampala. While other leafy greens like Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) or Malabar Spinach (Basella alba) are sometimes colloquially called Chinese spinach, this article focuses on the Amaranth varieties.

Amaranth is characterized by its upright growth and colorful foliage, ranging from solid green or red to variegated patterns. The leaves are oval to heart-shaped and grow on plants that can reach one to three feet tall. Its flavor profile is mild and slightly sweet with an earthy undertone, similar to traditional spinach but with a more robust texture.

How to Plant Chinese Spinach

Plant Chinese spinach from seed in late spring or early summer after the danger of frost has passed. The seeds require warm soil to germinate, with a minimum temperature of 50°F (10°C), but germinate faster between 68°F and 85°F (20°C to 29°C). You can sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors for an earlier harvest.

When sowing directly, plant the seeds about a quarter-inch deep, spacing them one to two inches apart. Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to a final spacing of six to eight inches apart to allow room for mature growth. Staggered rows can improve air circulation and make harvesting easier.

Chinese spinach is also well-suited for container gardening. Choose a pot with a minimum depth of at least 10 cm and ensure it has good drainage to prevent water from pooling at the roots. The same spacing guidelines apply.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Light

Chinese spinach requires a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. While the plant tolerates partial shade, ample light is needed for vibrant leaf color and vigorous growth. In regions with extremely hot summers, a spot with some afternoon shade can prevent stress on the plant.

Soil

This plant thrives in light, fertile, and well-draining soil, such as a loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter like compost. Good drainage is important to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. It tolerates a wide soil pH range from 4.3 to 7.8, making it adaptable.

Water

Consistent moisture is important for tender leaves, but avoid overwatering. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. A good practice is to check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. The plant is relatively drought-tolerant once established but performs best with a steady water supply.

Temperature

As a plant native to tropical regions, Chinese spinach flourishes in heat. It grows best in temperatures from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Unlike traditional spinach that bolts as temperatures rise, this leafy green will continue to produce throughout the hot summer months.

Harvesting and Culinary Uses

The first harvest can occur 30 to 40 days after sowing. A common harvesting technique is the “cut-and-come-again” method. This involves snipping the outer, mature leaves from the plant, which allows the inner leaves to continue growing for a prolonged harvest.

Alternatively, you can harvest the entire plant at once by cutting the main stem an inch or two above the soil level. This can sometimes allow for regrowth and a second, smaller harvest. For the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to harvest leaves when they are young and tender.

In the kitchen, both the leaves and tender stems are edible. They can be used fresh in salads or cooked. A popular preparation is to stir-fry the greens with garlic or add them to soups and stews, where they cook down quickly like regular spinach. Their mild flavor pairs well with a wide range of seasonings.

Common Pests and Diseases

Chinese spinach is a resilient plant but can be susceptible to certain pests, particularly in the seedling stage. Flea beetles and aphids are the most common insects to watch for. Flea beetles can be managed by using floating row covers to protect young plants until they are established. Aphids can be controlled with a strong spray of water or by applying insecticidal soap.

Fungal diseases like leaf spot can occur in overly damp conditions or with poor air circulation. Damping-off is another fungal issue that affects seedlings if the soil is too wet and not well-drained. Prevention relies on providing proper spacing and ensuring good soil drainage as described earlier.