Amaranth

Plant family

Fuchsschwanzgewächse (Amaranthaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Medium

Plant distance

30 cm

Row spacing

40 cm

Seeding depth

1 cm

Instructions

Description

Amaranth (Amaranthus) is also known as foxtail and belongs to the foxtail family (Amaranthaceae). It is one of the oldest staple psuedo-grains and complete protein plant sources. It has become popular in recent years mainly because of its nutrient-rich seeds. The leaves can also be eaten and are used like spinach. Amaranth is an annual or perennial plant based on species and temperature that can grow between 1m to 1.5m (3 to 5 ft) tall and has magnificent flowers in red, pink, green, yellow, orange, and purple varieties. Amaranth is sensitive to frost and should be sown only after the last frosts. Amaranth crosses quickly, so it is recommended to grow only one variety per year.

Growing tips

Amaranth needs a lot of warmth, so a sheltered location is an advantage. The soil should also not be too moist and, if in doubt, drier. A little fertilizer in between is good for it. It is sown in broad cubes and the seeds are lifted slightly under the soil. Keep the soil moderately moist during germination. Pre-cultivation is also possible from March. It should not be sown after June, as the cultivation time is then no longer sufficient for growth. For harvesting, the flowers are cut off and hung up to dry. Can be mounded or supported for more stability. Weeds should be removed regularly.