Troubleshooting
Tyee Spinach problems — and how to fix them
Tyee Spinach (Spinacia oleracea 'Tyee') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Bolting in heat
Even Tyee's exceptional bolt resistance has limits — sustained temperatures above 24°C (75°F) combined with 14+ hour days will eventually trigger flowering. Autumn sowings often outperform spring in warm climates.
Aphids
Clusters of green or grey aphids on young growth and leaf undersides, particularly in spring. Blast off with water, introduce ladybirds, or apply an insecticidal soap spray. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilising which promotes soft growth attractive to aphids.
Iron deficiency (chlorosis)
Yellowing between veins on young leaves when soil pH drops below 6.0, locking up iron. Correct with lime to raise pH; apply chelated iron as a short-term fix.
Prevent tyee spinach problems before they start
Most tyee spinach issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for tyee spinach in general rather than its problems? Read the full tyee spinach care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Tyee Spinach problems — FAQ
Why is my tyee spinach bolting in heat?
Even Tyee's exceptional bolt resistance has limits — sustained temperatures above 24°C (75°F) combined with 14+ hour days will eventually trigger flowering. Autumn sowings often outperform spring in warm climates.
Why is my tyee spinach aphids?
Clusters of green or grey aphids on young growth and leaf undersides, particularly in spring. Blast off with water, introduce ladybirds, or apply an insecticidal soap spray. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilising which promotes soft growth attractive to aphids.
Why is my tyee spinach iron deficiency (chlorosis)?
Yellowing between veins on young leaves when soil pH drops below 6.0, locking up iron. Correct with lime to raise pH; apply chelated iron as a short-term fix.