Perpetual Spinaches in Pennyvenie

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 Pennyvenie · last frost ≈ 21 May

Sow March to August, harvest July to October. Frost risk October to May.
ActivityJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
SowNoNoYesYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNoNo
HarvestNoNoNoNoNoNoYesYesYesYesNoNo

Growing guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Perpetual Spinach

  1. 01

    Sow Seeds

    21 Mar to 21 Aug every 3 weeks

    Sow seeds from 21st March to 21st August, about deep in drills or small stations. Sow a fresh batch every 21 days for a longer picking season.

  2. 02

    Thin Seedlings

    19 Jun to 3 Jul

    When seedlings are large enough to handle from 19th June, thin them to the strongest plants. Leave the final spacing at so the leaves can bulk up without crowding.

  3. 03

    Protect From Pests

    12 Jun to 31 Jul

    From 12th June, 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

    26 Jun to 28 Aug

    From 26th June to 28th August, 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

    31 Jul to 3 Oct

    Start picking from 31st July and keep going to 3rd October. 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.