Spinach is a nutritious leafy green grown in Mauritius during the cooler months. Rich in iron and vitamins, it is used in soups, stir-fries, and as a side dish. Mauritian varieties are adapted to tropical conditions.

Local names: Zepinar, Épinard, Spinach

Months: April, May, June, July, August, September

Best planted from April to September during the cool, dry season. Bolts quickly in summer heat.

• Soil type: Rich, moisture-retentive loamy soil
• pH: 6.5–7.0
• Compost: Incorporate plenty of compost for nitrogen. Spinach is a heavy nitrogen feeder.

• Seed type: Direct sow seeds
• Spacing: 15–20 cm between plants, 25–30 cm between rows
• Watering: Frequent light watering to keep soil consistently moist. Daily in dry weather.
• Sunlight: Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours). Shade cloth helps in warmer months.

Organic options:

• Compost
• Worm castings
• Diluted cow manure tea

Chemical options:

• NPK 15-5-10 (high nitrogen)
• Urea (light application)

Leaf miners

• Natural remedy: Remove affected leaves and use neem oil spray
• Chemical fallback: Spinosad

Slugs

• Natural remedy: Beer traps and diatomaceous earth around plants
• Chemical fallback: Iron phosphate pellets

• Days to maturity: 35–50 days
• Indicators: Leaves are dark green, full-sized (10–15 cm), and tender. Harvest before flower stalk appears.
• Yield tips: Cut outer leaves first, leaving the centre to continue growing. Multiple harvests possible from one planting.

• Duration: 3–5 days
• Temperature: Refrigerate at 0–4°C
• Tips: Store unwashed in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag. Blanch and freeze for longer storage.