Spinach is one of the easiest leafy greens to grow, making it perfect for beginner gardeners. Some varieties, like Bloomsdale and Baby’s Leaf, are especially good for beginners due to their resilience and fast growth. On the other hand, a few types, such as those prone to bolting, might be more challenging to manage. Here’s a guide to the best (and a few trickier) spinach varieties for those just starting out.
1. Bloomsdale Spinach
Bloomsdale is a classic, heirloom variety and a favorite among beginner gardeners. It’s known for its deep green, crinkly leaves and rich flavor. One reason it’s perfect for beginners is that it’s incredibly hardy. This variety is slower to bolt compared to others, meaning it won’t quickly go to seed during warmer weather, which can cause bitterness in the leaves. Additionally, Bloomsdale thrives in a variety of climates and can be grown both in spring and fall. It’s a forgiving option if you’re just getting the hang of spinach growing.
Pro Tip:
Bloomsdale is a good option for container gardens as well, so even if you’re limited on space, you can still enjoy a productive harvest.
2. Baby’s Leaf Spinach
If you’re eager for a quick and simple harvest, Baby’s Leaf spinach is an excellent choice. This variety matures faster than most, allowing you to start picking leaves as soon as 30 days after planting. Baby’s Leaf also has tender, small leaves that are perfect for salads or smoothies, making it a versatile kitchen crop. Its fast growth and small size make it perfect for those looking to grow spinach indoors or in small containers.
This spinach is particularly popular with new gardeners because it’s very low maintenance, and you can keep harvesting as long as you keep picking the outer leaves.
Fun Fact:
Because of its rapid growth and tender leaves, Baby’s Leaf is also great for kids who want to get involved in gardening—it’s almost instant gratification!
3. Tyee Spinach
Tyee is a hybrid spinach variety that’s particularly resistant to bolting and downy mildew, a common problem in damp climates. For beginner gardeners, managing plant diseases can feel daunting, so Tyee offers an easy-going experience with fewer issues. It grows well in both cooler and warmer temperatures, making it versatile across different seasons. The leaves are smooth and dark green, with a slightly more upright growth habit, which makes them easy to harvest.
4. Space Spinach
Another excellent hybrid variety for beginners, Space spinach is known for its smooth, dark green leaves and a compact growth habit, making it ideal for container gardening or small spaces. Like Tyee, it has strong resistance to bolting, which is key for novice gardeners who may be uncertain about the right time to plant or harvest. Space spinach can handle temperature fluctuations better than many other varieties, making it a more forgiving plant for those who are still learning how to manage seasonal changes.
5. Regiment Spinach
Regiment is another fast-growing, easy-to-harvest variety that’s perfect for beginners. It has large, smooth leaves that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. It’s also a slow-bolting variety, which is great for warmer regions where spinach often struggles as the temperature rises. It’s a versatile choice for those new to gardening and looking for a dependable crop to boost their confidence.
Pro Tip:
Harvesting regularly will prevent the plant from bolting and extend its productive life.
Spinach Varieties That Might Be Challenging for Beginners
While most spinach varieties are beginner-friendly, there are a few that can be a bit more difficult to manage:
- Malabar Spinach
This variety isn’t technically a true spinach, but it’s often grown as an alternative in warmer climates. However, it has a climbing growth habit and requires a trellis, which can be more challenging for new gardeners to manage. It also prefers much warmer temperatures than traditional spinach, making it tricky for those who are used to cooler-weather crops. If you’re looking for a no-fuss spinach, this may not be the best choice, especially for beginners. - New Zealand Spinach
Like Malabar Spinach, New Zealand Spinach is another spinach alternative that thrives in warm weather. It grows in a more sprawling manner and requires more space, making it less ideal for small garden plots or container gardens. For beginners working with limited space or unfamiliar with pruning and training sprawling plants, this variety can be more difficult to manage. - Savoy Spinach Varieties (besides Bloomsdale)
Savoy spinach varieties have crinkled leaves that tend to trap dirt, which can make them a little more difficult to clean. Additionally, they are sometimes more prone to bolting in hot weather, so you need to be careful about planting them at the right time. While Bloomsdale is a great savoy variety, some other savoy types can be more challenging for beginners who are still figuring out planting schedules and care routines.
Key Takeaways for Beginner Spinach Gardeners
For new gardeners, the best spinach varieties are those that are fast-growing, resistant to bolting, and can handle a range of temperatures. Varieties like Bloomsdale, Baby’s Leaf, Tyee, Space, and Regiment are excellent beginner options that are easy to care for and forgiving of common gardening mistakes. On the other hand, avoid varieties like Malabar Spinach, New Zealand Spinach, and some trickier savoy types unless you’re prepared for extra maintenance.
With the right variety, spinach can be a rewarding and simple crop to grow, even for complete beginners!
Learn more in my latest book, Get a Green Thumb: A Beginner’s Guide to: Spinach on Amazon.
