If you’re looking for a leafy green that’s easy to grow and packed with goodness, look no further than chinese spinach. This nutritious and versatile leafy green is a staple in many gardens and kitchens for very good reason.
It goes by many names, like amaranth or yin choi, but its benefits are universal. Whether you have a big garden or just a few pots, you can grow it yourself. And once you harvest it, you’ll have a delicious ingredient ready for countless meals.
Let’s look at how you can grow, harvest, and enjoy this fantastic plant.
Chinese Spinach – Nutritious and Versatile Leafy Green
Chinese spinach isn’t actually true spinach, but it’s used in very similar ways. It’s a type of amaranth, and it thrives in warm weather where regular spinach might bolt. The leaves can be green or have a beautiful reddish-purple tint.
It’s a fast-growing crop, often ready for its first harvest in just 30-40 days. You can pick the young leaves continuously for weeks. This makes it a very rewarding plant for gardeners of all skill levels.
Why Grow Chinese Spinach in Your Garden
The reasons to plant this green are numerous. Here are the key benefits:
- Heat Tolerant: It grows well in summer heat, filling the gap when other cool-weather greens fade.
- Nutrient Dense: It’s an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron, calcium, and magnesium.
- Dual-Purpose: You can eat the tender leaves and the young stems. Some varieties even produce edible grain.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it’s relatively pest-resistant and doesn’t demand constant attention.
How to Plant and Grow Chinese Spinach
Getting started is straightforward. You can sow seeds directly in your garden bed or in containers.
Choosing the Right Spot and Time
Chinese spinach loves sunshine. Pick a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. The soil should be well-draining but kept consistently moist.
Wait until after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. It needs warm soil to germinate reliably. You can make successive plantings every two weeks for a continuous harvest.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Loosen the soil to about 12 inches deep. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure.
- Sow the tiny seeds about 1/4 inch deep. You can scatter them and thin later, or place them 2 inches apart.
- Water the area gently but thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until seedlings appear, which usually takes 5-10 days.
- Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to stand 6-10 inches apart. Don’t throw away the thinnings—you can eat them!
Caring for Your Plants
Regular watering is the most important task. Try to water at the base of the plants to keep leaves dry and prevent disease. A layer of mulch around the plants helps retain soil moisture.
If your soil is decent, they won’t need much extra feeding. A light dose of a balanced organic fertilizer halfway through the growing season can give them a boost if needed. Watch out for slugs and snails on young plants, but mature plants are usually trouble-free.
Harvesting Your Leafy Greens
You have two main options for harvesting, and both are simple.
- Harvest Whole Plants: You can pull up the entire plant when it’s young and tender, usually around 30 days old.
- Cut-and-Come-Again: This is the most popular method. Use clean scissors to snip off the outer leaves and top 3-4 inches of stem, leaving the inner core to keep growing. You can get several harvests from each plant this way.
The best time to harvest is in the cool of the morning. The leaves will be crisp and full of moisture. Give them a good rinse in cool water to remove any soil, and they’re ready to use or store.
Simple and Tasty Ways to Use Chinese Spinach
This is where the versatility really shines. The flavor is mild, slightly sweet, and earthy—similar to spinach but a bit more robust.
It cooks down quite a bit, so start with a larger volume than you think you need. Always cook the stems a little longer than the leaves, as they take more time to soften.
Quick Cooking Methods
Here are three easy ways to prepare it:
- Stir-Frying: This is the classic method. Heat oil in a wok, add garlic, then toss in the stems first. Add the leaves last and stir-fry until just wilted. A splash of soy sauce finishes it perfectly.
- Steaming or Boiling: Steam the leaves for a few minutes until tender. You can also blanch them briefly in boiling water, then shock in ice water to retain their bright color for salads.
- Adding to Soups and Stews: Stir the chopped leaves into your favorite soup or stew during the last few minutes of cooking. They add great nutrition and color.
Recipe Idea: Simple Garlic Chinese Spinach
This is a go-to side dish that takes minutes.
- Wash and chop a big bunch of chinese spinach, separating thicker stems from leaves.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the stems first, cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the leaves.
- Toss everything together until the leaves are wilted and dark green. Season with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of sesame oil.
It’s a fantastic accompaniment to grilled fish, chicken, or tofu. You can also mix it into noodles or fried rice for a complete meal.
Storing Your Harvest
For the best flavor, use your harvest right away. If you need to store it, here’s how:
- Short-Term (2-3 days): Wrap the unwashed leaves loosely in a paper towel, place them in a perforated plastic bag, and store in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer.
- Long-Term: Blanch the leaves for 2 minutes, plunge into ice water, drain thoroughly, and freeze in airtight bags. They’ll keep for several months this way, ideal for adding to cooked dishes later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Chinese spinach the same as regular spinach?
No, they are different plants from different botanical families. Chinese spinach (amaranth) handles heat better and has a slightly stronger flavor, but they can be used interchangeably in recipes.
Can I grow it in a pot?
Absolutely. Choose a pot at least 12 inches deep and wide. Make sure it has good drainage holes. Use a quality potting mix and water a bit more frequently, as containers dry out faster.
What are the health benefits of chinese spinach?
It is very high in Vitamin K for bone health, Vitamin A for vision, and Vitamin C for immunity. It also provides a good amount of iron and calcium, especially when cooked.
Are there any common pests?
Leaf-eating insects like caterpillars or beetles might visit. Hand-picking is often enough. Using row covers when plants are young can prevent most issues without needing sprays.
Adding chinese spinach to your garden plan is a smart move. It’s a reliable producer that doesn’t ask for much but gives a lot back. From seed to harvest, the process is quick and satisfying.
With its ability to grow in hot weather and its flexability in the kitchen, it’s a green you’ll find yourself relying on all season long. Give it a try this summer—you might just find your new favorite garden staple.