Planting and Growing Guide for Warrigal Greens (Tetragonia expansa)
Description
New Zealand Spinach, or Botany Bay Greens or Warrigal Greens is a native plant in Australia and New Zealand. It occurs wild at the back of sand dunes along the coast and is very hardy and salt tolerant. It spreads easily like a weed on poor soils. Seeds can be sown at any time of the year. To help with germination, soak the seed in warm water overnight. Plant the seeds in seed trays or directly in the garden. Seedlings will sprout in about 2-3 weeks. It also grows well from cuttings. They grow almost anywhere to position, spreading up a wire trellis, a fence or sprawling under other plants. The plants need to be grown quickly and steadily for best flavour. The leaves and shoots can be harvested as the plants grow reaching full size in about harvest six weeks. Warrigal greens do well in hot dry weather, unlike other spinach type plants. Warrigal Greens have few pests or other problems. The fleshy, arrow-shaped leaves are delicious, but they contain oxalates that can be harmful when eaten in large amounts. The leaves should always be blanched in boiling water for 10-30 seconds before being sautéed, steamed or eaten in salads. Warrigal Greens have a nice leafy green taste with a slightly bitter after-taste. The leaves are ideal for Asian stir fry dishes as the fry so well. Warrigal greens can be mixed with feta in a pie or quiche. They make a nice topping for fish and other seafood dishes.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed 1 cm (1/2 inch) deep in seed trays in frosty and cold areas. Plant out after 4-6 weeks. Can be planted directly into the ground in warm weather.
Space between plants: Space plants about 45-60 cm (15-24 inches) apart. When growing on a trellis, set plants at about 45 cm (18 inches) apart.
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 8-10 weeks. The small shoots and leaves can be picked continuously.
Hints:
- Does best in full sun in warmer areas; part shade in hotter areas
- Does best in warm weather and can withstand hot and dry conditions
- Does well in most soils
- Needs to be controlled as it spreads and self-seeds easily
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!