(Spinacia oleracea) 150 seeds per packet (unless otherwise noted). The most important greens crop. It is very hardy and will stand considerable freezing weather, but many varieties run to seed rapidly in hot weather. It is of easy culture and by succession sowing, a supply may be secured throughout the season. For early spring use, sow in late September and protect with hay or straw through the winter. May be sown in spring as early as the ground can be worked, either in rows or broadcast. Summer sowings should be on freshly plowed ground and the soil packed hard about the seed, as the seed will not germinate in dry soil.