| |
The amaranth family includes flowers, herbs, and weeds. Some varieties are grown and harvested for food. The seeds of the "Grain Amaranth" were harvested by Aztec and Inca tribes in Central and South America. In Asia and South America Amaranth is cultivated as a grain crop. In the U.S., it can be found in health food stores. |
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Well Drained Rich in Nitrogen and Phosperous |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Growing Guide
GROWING NOTES
Amaranth is responsive to nitrogen and phosphorous. Plants grown in average garden soil will be four-feet to six-feet tall, while those grown in rich soil or compost may reach over eight feet. Optimum soil is a well-drained loam but both plants will do well in all but poorly aerated clay soils.
Amaranth are grown from seed. Amaranth seeds can be directly seeded into your flower garden, or started indoors for transplanting later. Note, Amaranth plants are susceptible to frost. Amaranth prefers warm weather. If planting outdoors, sow Amaranth seeds after the soil has begun to warm in the spring.
We recommend an indoor start, six to eight weeks before the last frost in your area.
Sow seeds early in the season and cover lightly with soil. Space seeds or seedlings 10-12" apart. They will tolerate a little crowding, and look good in clumps or groups.
MAINTAINING
Amaranth are very easy to grow. They prefer a warm climate, full sun, and a well drained soil. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a season.
Originating in warmer climates, Amaranth is heat and drought resistant.
Amaranth will grow tall, 1-2 feet. They will produce of blooms on strong, straight stems. Flowers are long lasting, and will bloom from mid summer until frost.
Amaranth resembles lamb's-quarters and amaranth resembles red-rooted pigweed, especially in the early stages of growth, so it is best to sow seed in rows to make weeding less confusing. Sowing amaranth cultivars with purple leaves also simplifies weeding. Since seed is small, you can avoid considerable thinning by mixing it with sand or radish seed before sowing, as is sometimes done with carrots. Amaranth and quinoa are low-maintenance crops but weeds, especially at the beginning, should be discouraged by cultivation or mulching.
|
|
