Perpetual Spinaches in Kilnhill

Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris (Leaf Beet Group)

Perpetual Spinach
Perpetual Spinach · Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris (Leaf Beet Group)

A hardy cut-and-come-again leaf beet that grows well in most UK gardens. Sow in succession from spring to mid-summer for steady picks through autumn and into winter with light protection.

40 cm · Full Sun · Moderate Water

Add to garden

Calibrated to Kilnhill · last frost ≈ 11 May

Sow April to May, harvest June to December. Frost risk October to May.
ActivityJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
SowNoNoNoYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
HarvestNoNoNoNoNoYesYesYesYesYesYesYes

Growing guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Perpetual Spinach

  1. 01

    Sow Seeds

    20 Apr to 18 May every 3 weeks

    Sow seeds from 20th April to 18th May, about deep in drills or small stations. Sow a fresh batch every 21 days for a longer picking season.

  2. 02

    Thin Seedlings

    18 May to 1 Jun

    When seedlings are large enough to handle from 18th May, thin them to the strongest plants. Leave the final spacing at so the leaves can bulk up without crowding.

  3. 03

    Protect From Pests

    4 May to 29 Jun

    From 4th May, check plants often for slugs and snails, especially after rain. Use fleece, traps or pellets suitable for wildlife gardens if young plants are being nipped off.

  4. 04

    Water Regularly

    25 May to 27 Jul

    From 25th May to 27th July, keep the soil evenly moist so the plants stay productive in dry spells. Water at the base rather than over the leaves, and mulch if the bed dries out quickly.

  5. 05

    Harvest Leaves

    22 Jun to 11 Dec

    Start picking from 22nd June and keep going to 11th December. Take the outer leaves first, or cut whole plants a little above the crown if you want a bigger flush later.

Companion plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Perpetual Spinach.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested varieties

Popular varieties of Perpetual Spinach to consider

Fordhook Giant

A reliable leafy type with broad, tender green leaves and good regrowth.

Bright Lights

A colourful strain with stems in red, gold, orange and white. Leaves are picked young for best texture.

Lucullus

A classic green leaf beet with a mild flavour and steady cut-and-come-again growth.

Perpetual Spinach guides by town

See how Perpetual Spinach timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.