Perpetual Spinaches in Perranuthnoe

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 Perranuthnoe · last frost ≈ 26 Mar

Sow January to June, harvest June to November. Frost risk November to March.
ActivityJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
SowYesYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNo
HarvestNoNoNoNoNoYesYesYesYesYesYesNo

Growing guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Perpetual Spinach

  1. 01

    Sow Seeds

    24 Jan to 26 Jun every 3 weeks

    Sow seeds from 24th January to 26th June, about deep in drills or small stations. Sow a fresh batch every 21 days for a longer picking season.

  2. 02

    Thin Seedlings

    24 Apr to 8 May

    When seedlings are large enough to handle from 24th April, thin them to the strongest plants. Leave the final spacing at so the leaves can bulk up without crowding.

  3. 03

    Protect From Pests

    17 Apr to 5 Jun

    From 17th April, 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

    1 May to 3 Jul

    From 1st May to 3rd 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

    5 Jun to 28 Nov

    Start picking from 5th June and keep going to 28th November. 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.