Spinach has quite delicate roots, so avoid lumpy clay soil. Photo / Supplied
How to grow it:
Late spring is perfect to grow spinach.
Iron and folate-rich, this super vege enjoys warmth, moisture and good drainage and will grow lovely big leaves in these conditions.
Grown at the height of summer, spinach tends to bolt.
Incorporate home-made compost in your soil and cultivate until you have a crumbly loam.
Spinach has quite delicate roots, so avoid lumpy clay soil.
It is best planted in raised beds, or a medium planter or broad pot.
Spinach prefer alkaline soil, so incorporate a little dolomite before planting.
Apply occasional liquid feeds (fish-based is good).
In the kitchen:
I love the way the Japanese serve spinach.
Simmer for a couple of minutes until wilted, then dip in ice water to retain the colour.
Mix a little mirin and soy sauce with the leaves and sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds.
Spinach shouldn't be eaten every day as the leaves are high in oxalic acid.
Here's the ideal formula for crunchy-yet-fluffy roasties.