Jefferson grew Prickly-seeded spinach in the Monticello vegetable garden in 1809 and 1812 for both a spring and fall crop. Mentioned as early as the 13th century in Germany, this smooth and triangular-leaved spinach is named for its thorny clusters of seed. In 1806 Bernard McMahon of Philadelphia said it was "the hardiest kind" of spinach and recommended it for overwintering by planting seed in September for early spring use. Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book, Notes on the State of Virginia, or other writings. Directly sow the seeds into the garden in mid-winter for an early spring harvest because the plants tend to bolt in hot weather. Plant seed in late summer or early fall for fall harvests and for overwintering. 45-50 days to maturity. Approximately 85-90 seeds per pack.
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