For a long time, purslane, also known as winter spinach, was fought bitterly as a very stubborn and stubborn weed. In recent years, however, the he althy winter vegetables have gained new recognition due to their high content of vitamins and minerals. However, only the winter purslane is actually hardy, while the summer purslane needs a lot of sun and warmth.
Is purslane hardy?
Winter-hardy purslane, also known as winter spinach, is an undemanding winter vegetable that can survive temperatures down to -20°C. It can be sown outdoors from September and prefers loose, humus-rich, sandy soil. Growing in planters is also possible.
Winter-hardy purslane is undemanding
Winter purslane, also known as winter spinach, Cuban spinach or Siberian purslane, is very undemanding and does well with little sun. The plant also survives frosty winters with temperatures down to -20°C. The white or light pink flowering plants grow to a height of around ten to 15 centimeters and tend to creep. For this reason, they are ideal as ground cover, especially in shady places (e.g. for greenery under trees).
Growing winter purslane
Winter spinach can be sown directly outdoors from the end of September. In mild winters, sowing in December or January is still possible, as is spring sowing in March. The plants prefer loose and humus-rich soil, which can be sandy. In contrast to summer purslane, winter purslane is an angiosperm whose seeds should be about 10 millimeters deep in the ground. The optimal distance between the individual plants is around 10 x 15 centimeters, although you should separate the young plants quickly. Winter spinach is also one of the cold germs that only germinate when there is a corresponding cold stimulus in the form of temperatures below 12 °C. It is also possible to grow it in a greenhouse, balcony box or other planter.
Tips & Tricks
Cover the ground around the plants with a thick layer of bark mulch to keep it warm and moist - this way, not only do weeds have no chance, the plants also survive even very cold winters better.