Start indoors or direct sow?

Direct sow is simple in warm soil, but starting indoors is useful in shorter-summer climates. It tolerates transplanting when moved young, though individual pots reduce root disturbance.

When to start New Zealand Spinach seeds

Start indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last spring frost, then transplant after frost danger has passed and soil has warmed. Direct sow 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost, once soil is about 60 to 70 F or warmer.

How to sow the seeds

Soak the seed clusters in water for several hours or overnight, then sow 1/2 inch deep in sterile seed-starting mix or loose garden soil. Use individual 2- to 3-inch pots or large cells for indoor plants.

Germination

Germination commonly takes 10 to 20 days, sometimes longer, at about 65 to 75 F. Keep the mix evenly moist during this period, but do not keep it saturated.

Seedling care

Provide strong light indoors and water when the mix begins to dry at the top. Thin direct-sown plants to about 12 inches apart, and use sanitation, airflow, and restrained watering to help prevent damping off.

Transplanting & hardening off

Harden seedlings off for 5 to 7 days and transplant after frost risk has passed into a sunny location. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart and water them in thoroughly.

Tips

Be patient before re-sowing, because sprouting can be uneven. Harvest tips and young leaves regularly to encourage branching.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.