Cultural Production Practices Control weeds in the planting with shallow cultivation. Do not cultivate deeply because this will damage the roots. Do not move soil toward the plants because spinach leaves that are covered by soil will rot rapidly. The primary disease problems with this crop are downy mildew, white rust, and seedling damping-off. Insects that may be a problem in growing spinach are aphids, cutworms, cabbage loopers, corn earworms, and diamondback moth caterpillars.
Aphids are a major problem because they transmit viruses to the plants.
Contact your county Cooperative Extension office for methods to control these diseases and insects. Harvest Spinach should be ready to harvest in about 37 to 45 days after planting. Harvest dark green, tender leaves that are 3-6 inches long by picking individual leaves or cutting leaves. Start by picking the outer leaves as they reach the desired size. Rinse the spinach under running water and remove the excess moisture from the spinach by using paper towels or a salad spinner.