No abstract

SUMMARY Dark Green Bloomsdale spinach was grown in the fall and in the spring to study the effect of stage of development upon the distribution of total and soluble oxalates in the plant. The total oxalate content of fall‐grown spinach was highest 32 days after planting, with the amount decreasing as the plant developed vegetatively. Spring‐grown spinach was highest in total and soluble oxalates 32 days after planting, with the amounts decreasing as the plants developed vegetatively. Leaves harvested earlier in growth were higher in total oxalates than leaves harvested when older. The concentration of total and soluble oxalates was highest in the leaves, petioles, and roots, in that order. The total oxalates were closely correlated between the leaves, petioles, and roots. Soluble oxalates were closely correlated between leaves and petioles, but not in the roots. The oxalates in all plant parts were predominantly in the soluble form. Analysis of leaf tissues for total oxalates could indicate the level to be expected in the petioles and roots. The level of soluble oxalates in the leaves and petioles could also be predicted.