Tetragonia tetragonoides

Growing guide and sowing timing

Tetragonia tetragonoides seeds thrive in warm conditions. Sow after last frost when soil is warm; in frost-free areas, sow during the warm season. Choose full sun for best growth, though light shade is tolerated. Plant in well-drained, moderately fertile soil and keep moisture consistent for tender leaves. The plants are low and spreading; give them room to sprawl and follow packet spacing. Lightly pre-soak the seed 12–24 hours to speed even germination. Keep beds weed-free and mulch to conserve moisture. Pinch or harvest tips to encourage branching. Protect from cold snaps and dryness during establishment.

• Sow shallowly after last frost when soil is warm; in frost-free climates, sow during the warm season.
• Provide full sun; light shade is tolerated. Use well-drained, moderately fertile soil and water steadily.
• Low, spreading habit—allow room to sprawl; tip-prune to keep plants compact.
• Edible: grown for leafy shoots; harvest young leaves and tender tips periodically.
• Container suitable: grows well in large, well-watered containers with space for trailing growth.

When should I sow Tetragonia tetragonoides?

Sow Tetragonia tetragonoides after the last frost, once the soil is warm and settled. In frost-free areas, it can be sown during the warm season. Soil temperatures around 18–24°C support reliable germination and early growth. In cooler springs, starting seeds under cover and transplanting once nights stay mild can help, but avoid chilling seedlings. Because plants are productive over a long period, a single sowing often suffices; where a very long warm season is expected, a second sowing mid-season can replace tired plants. Protect young plants from late cold snaps and strong winds until established.

What are New Zealand spinach germination tips?

New Zealand spinach seeds have a tough, corky coat; pre-soaking in lukewarm water for 12–24 hours improves germination. Lightly nicking or rubbing a few seeds against sandpaper can further help, though it’s optional. Sow 1–2 cm deep into warm, moist, well-drained media and keep consistently damp but never waterlogged. Bottom warmth speeds emergence in cool conditions. Expect germination in roughly 10–21 days, faster in warmer soils. Thin or transplant the strongest seedlings once they have a couple of true leaves, handling gently to avoid disturbing roots. Good airflow and bright light reduce damping-off and leggy growth.

What is the best soil and sun for Warrigal greens?

Warrigal greens thrive in full sun, with tolerance for light shade in hotter exposures. Choose a well-drained, moderately fertile soil; heavy, waterlogged ground slows growth, while extremely lean soils reduce leaf size. Incorporating organic matter supports moisture retention and steady growth, and a surface mulch helps keep roots cool and evenly moist. Consistent moisture produces the most tender shoots, though established plants are fairly resilient once rooted. Avoid overly rich nitrogen spikes that cause weak, lush growth; instead aim for balanced fertility. A neutral to slightly acidic soil suits most situations, provided drainage is reliable.

What spacing do New Zealand spinach plants need?

Allow generous room for this low, spreading plant. Space seedlings about 45–60 cm apart, with 60–90 cm between rows if grown in beds, to accommodate a trailing spread that can reach 60–120 cm in favourable conditions. The plant’s prostrate habit makes it useful as a living mulch or edging; it can be guided along borders or over the edge of raised beds. Provide a clear area around each plant so new shoots have space to branch. Regularly pinching the growing tips encourages a denser, wider mat and helps keep pathways clear.

Can I grow Tetragonia tetragonoides in containers?

Yes. Choose a container at least 25–30 cm deep and wide for a single plant, larger if you want a fuller trailing display. Use a high-quality, well-drained potting mix enriched with organic matter, and ensure the pot has good drainage. Position in full sun where possible, and water consistently so the mix never fully dries out, especially in hot, windy weather. A light, regular feed supports leafy growth over the season. Allow stems to spill over the rim or provide a low support to keep foliage tidy and off hot surfaces.

How do I harvest and pinch Warrigal greens for best yields?

Begin harvesting once plants are established and branching, taking young shoot tips and tender leaves. Snip 8–10 cm sections above a leaf node, rotating around the plant to avoid stripping any one area; regular, light picking stimulates fresh growth. Pinch back vigorous stems to encourage side shoots and a denser habit, which increases overall yield and keeps the spread manageable. Avoid heavy cuts during early establishment or immediately after stress (e.g., heatwaves or dry spells). Leave enough foliage after each harvest to power quick regrowth throughout the warm season.

Information here summarises widely used horticultural practices and supplier guidance. Conditions vary by microclimate, soil type, drainage, exposure, and sowing timing (for example, after the last frost or when soil is workable). These notes provide general orientation; exact requirements, including sowing depth, spacing, and any lot-specific recommendations, are detailed on individual product pages and labels. Practices should be adapted to local climate severity, protection needs, and site history to align with best-practice cultivation.

Growing guidance and related varieties

Tetragonia tetragonoides seeds suit warm conditions and produce a leafy plant that thrives once soils have warmed. Sow after last frost when the ground is workable, or in mild climates consider an autumn sowing. Pre-soak seeds for 12–24 hours to encourage even germination, then sow 1–2 cm deep in well-drained, moderately fertile soil with full sun. Germination can be slow in cool weather, often taking 10–21 days. Space plants to allow airflow (about 30–45 cm), keep the root zone evenly moist, and mulch to conserve water. Pinching growing tips encourages branching and a steady supply of tender foliage. This species is tolerant of heat and light coastal conditions, and is typically slower to bolt than many leafy crops. Harvest by snipping young shoots to maintain vigorous regrowth. For a broader view of seed offerings and concise cultivation notes across many species, see SeedsChoice.