🌱 How to Grow Malabar Spinach (Poi Saag) from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: पालतू पालक (Malabar Palak)

• Tamil: போய் சாக் (Poi Saag)

• Telugu: పొయి సాగు (Poi Saag)

• Malayalam: പോയ് സാഗ് (Poi Saag)

• Kannada: ಪೋಯಿ ಸಾಗಿ (Poi Saagi)

• English: Malabar Spinach / Ceylon Spinach

• Botanical name: Basella alba or Basella rubra

1. Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season climber

• Best time to sow: March to June (spring to early summer)

• Thrives in hot and humid weather, unlike regular spinach

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile loamy soil rich in organic matter

• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.5–7.5)

• Mix in compost or manure before sowing

3. Sow the Seeds

• Sow seeds directly in the garden or containers

• Depth: Sow seeds about ½ inch (1.2 cm) deep

• Spacing: 12–18 inches between plants

• Water lightly after sowing

4. Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

• Water regularly, especially during dry spells

• Mulching helps retain moisture and control weeds

5. Germination

• Seeds germinate in 7–14 days

• Thin seedlings to one strong plant per spot if multiple sprout

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Needs 5–6 hours of direct sunlight daily

• Grows best in warm temperatures between 25°C to 35°C

• Sensitive to frost, so avoid cold temperatures

7. Fertilization

• Apply organic compost or balanced fertilizer at planting

• Side-dress with compost or liquid fertilizer every 3–4 weeks

• Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen to prevent excessive leafiness with poor flavor

8. Pest Control

• Few pests due to the plant’s thick, waxy leaves

• Common pests: Aphids, caterpillars

• Use neem oil spray or insecticidal soap if needed

9. Harvesting

• Leaves and tender stems can be harvested in 40–50 days

• Pick outer leaves regularly to encourage new growth

• Can be harvested multiple times as it is a climbing perennial

10. Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from mature berries (fruit containing seeds)

• Dry seeds thoroughly before storing for next season

• Can be grown year-round in frost-free climates

🌿 Health Benefits of Malabar Spinach

• Rich in vitamins A, C, calcium, and iron

• High in antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestion and immunity

• Contains anti-inflammatory properties

• Good source of plant-based iron, helps combat anemia