NEW ZEALAND SPINACH - HEIRLOOM - OPEN POLLINATED - 10 SEEDS IN SOUTH AFRICA

      New Zealand Spinach Tetragonia tetragonoides   60 days — 'New Zealand Spinach' can be grown as a perennial in warmer climates but is typically grown as an annual. It is not related to true spinach but the leaves taste similar to, and some think better than, spinach. It does not bolt in hot weather nor does it typically turn bitter and it is valued because of its high vitamin C content. 'New Zealand' spinach, by its very nature, tends to be difficult to start and have low germination rates. The federal minimum standard is 40%. Soaking seeds in warm water for two to eight hours prior to sowing may help soften the seed coat and improve germination results. Additionally, it can take a couple of weeks for germination to occur (depending on weather). Keep soil moist until germination occurs. Flavor and texture do benefit from ample composting, mulching and watering. 'New Zealand Spinach is a very old heirloom introduced into England in 1772 by Sir Joseph Banks. It was reportedly discovered during the South Seas expedition of Captain Cook.