How to Grow and Use Amaranth in Your Home Garden

While amaranth is often admired as a decorative bloom in gardens across North America and Europe, it actually serves a dual purpose as a superb food source in various global regions. Cultivating amaranth as a food crop brings a unique twist to your veggie patch and makes gardening a bit more exciting.

Amaranth, a plant that doesn’t last long and is sensitive to frost, is celebrated both for its striking ornamental qualities and its utility as a food source. It thrives in summer gardens, boasting large, eye-catching tassels that can be crimson, purple, or green, along with vividly colored leaves.

This versatile plant goes by many names. Among its ornamental varieties, ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ is one of the most sought after. As for its edible forms, it’s known as amaranth, Caribbean spinach, Inca wheat, and several other names.

Both its leaves and seeds can be eaten, offering a powerhouse of nutrients. The leaves are packed with Vitamin C and iron and share a similar taste to spinach, while the gluten-free seeds are nutty, rich in protein, and loaded with calcium.

In regions without frost, amaranth might become invasive, but this isn’t a concern in cooler climates like the UK. Amaranth is not only a fabulous addition to floral arrangements, whether fresh or dried, but it’s also excellent for feeding wild birds, who are particularly fond of its seeds.

What is Amaranth?

Amaranth is a versatile plant renowned for both its grain and leafy greens. It boasts striking flowers that vary in form—some stand upright while others cascade—setting the stage for the production of amaranth grain.

The leaves, on the other hand, are harvested as nutritious greens. As an annual ornamental, amaranth has a rich history of cultivation dating back thousands of years, primarily for its grain-like seeds.

The plant features expansive, deeply veined leaves and typically sprouts a singular, vibrant flower atop a tall, reddish stem. Flower hues range from deep burgundy and red to soft pink and salmon.

To thrive, amaranth demands well-drained soil, ample air flow, and a sunny spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers slightly acidic soil conditions and thrives in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure your planting site meets these criteria for optimal growth.

Growing Amaranthus 

Amaranthus, with its striking appearance, thrives in full sunlight and is surprisingly straightforward to cultivate from seeds. Kickstart your planting early in the spring indoors to get a jump on the season, or sow directly into outdoor soil for ease.

This plant is perfect for adding a splash of color and texture to your garden beds or pots, especially when paired with vibrant flowers like dahlias or sunflowers.

For the best growth, place amaranthus in a spot that bathes in sunlight and in soil that remains moderately moist but well-draining. Notably, the Amaranthus caudatus variety, commonly known as love-lies-bleeding, is particularly forgiving and grows well even in less fertile soils.

Depending on their height, arrange the taller varieties towards the back of your garden beds and the shorter ones more centrally to enhance your garden’s visual appeal.

When it comes to soil preferences, amaranthus isn’t fussy. It prospers in average to fertile ground, benefiting from a balanced mix of nitrogen and phosphorus. This plant is quite the trooper, requiring minimal maintenance once established and showing a commendable tolerance to drier conditions.

• Sowing Amaranthus Seeds:

Begin your amaranthus adventure indoors around March using a light, moist seed compost. Remember, these seeds need light to germinate effectively, so rather than burying them, opt for a light sprinkle of perlite or simply cover them with polythene to retain moisture.

Maintain a cozy temperature of around 20°C to ensure successful germination. Once the seedlings are robust enough, transfer them to individual pots or trays until they’re ready for the garden.

You can also plant seeds directly into the garden from mid to late spring. Once your seedlings emerge, thin them out to give them ample space to flourish, generally about 30-60 cm apart.

• Planting Out Amaranthus:

Before moving your plants outdoors, it’s crucial to harden them off to adapt to outdoor conditions. Plant them in your garden late in spring or early summer, post the last frost. Choose a site that isn’t overly fertile and space your plants appropriately. Give them a good watering immediately after planting to settle them into their new home.

Amaranth Care

Cultivating amaranth is quite straightforward if you follow these simple guidelines. This plant flourishes in moderately acidic, well-drained soil and appreciates a spot that gets plenty of breezes.

It’s crucial to kick off your planting a bit after the frost has passed, spacing the seeds about 10 to 18 inches apart. You can plant batches sequentially every couple of weeks to keep your harvest going strong all season long.

When it comes to sunlight, amaranth is pretty adaptable. In cooler northern climates, it thrives under full sun, soaking up at least six hours of daylight. However, in the warmer southern areas, it’s wise to provide some shade during the intense afternoon heat.

As for the soil requirements, amaranth isn’t too picky. It will grow in average soil conditions and can manage even in less fertile soils. However, very rich soils might suppress its ability to flower and produce seeds, and dense clay could prove problematic. Ideally, plant your amaranth in fertile, well-drained loam for optimal growth.

Watering needs are modest—about an inch per week should suffice. It’s important to avoid overwatering to prevent issues like root rot or fungal infections. Initially, keep the soil moist after planting to help establish the plants, then cut back to watering only during prolonged dry periods.

Amaranth is remarkably heat-tolerant, making it a perfect choice for warmer regions. It performs best in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unlike many greens, amaranth doesn’t require frequent fertilizing.  In fact, too much nitrogen can make the plants overly tall and thin, reducing their yield. A light application of balanced organic fertilizer at planting time is all it needs.

Types of Amaranth

Amaranth, a crop steeped in history, traces its roots back to the Americas where it served as both a nutritious grain and a leafy vegetable for millennia.

Cultivated by the Aztecs in Mexico during the 1400s, its significance was so profound that Spanish conquistadors banned its cultivation in the 1500s due to its sacred role in indigenous rituals. Despite this, amaranth has made a global comeback and is now cultivated worldwide.

The Amaranthus genus encompasses over 75 species, including annuals and short-lived perennials that readily interbreed and form hybrids. These plants vary dramatically in size, with some varieties reaching up to eight feet, while others remain compact, ideal for harvesting leaves.

For those interested in grain production, opting for larger varieties specifically bred for seed yield is recommended. Among the popular choices are:

• Red-leaf amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor): Known for its nutrient-rich, tangy spinach-like leaves, cultivars like ‘Molten Fire’ and ‘Joseph’s Coat’ are highly favored.
• ‘Burgundy’ (A. hypochondriacus): This variety is visually striking with its purple leaves, red blooms, and white seeds.
• ‘Hopi Red Dye’ (A. cruentus): A heritage variety, it is prized for its high-protein, black seeds.

When selecting amaranth for edible purposes, it’s important to choose types that excel as food crops. For grain cultivation, consider varieties such as Amaranthus caudatus, Amaranthus cruentus, Amaranthus hypochondriacus, and Amaranthus retroflexus.

For leafy greens, suitable options include Amaranthus cruentus, Amaranthus blitum, and Amaranthus viridis, among others.

Ornamental amaranths also offer unique aesthetic value:

• Amaranthus caudatus ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ – Distinguished by its small, deep red flowers that dangle elegantly, perfect for fresh or dried floral arrangements.
• Amaranthus caudatus ‘Fat Spike’ – This variety boasts large, upright crimson flower spikes, suitable both as an ornamental and for culinary use.
• Amaranthus caudatus ‘Crimson Fountains Mixed’ – With its eye-catching crimson pompon tassels, it’s a stunning choice for cut flower arrangements.
• Amaranthus hypochondriacus ‘Green Thumb’ – An unusually compact ornamental, it features bronze-green foliage and unique green flower spikes, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and as a cut flower in both fresh and dried displays.
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Pruning Guide for Amaranth

To ensure your taller garden plants, like tomatoes, stay upright and healthy, consider using supports such as tomato cages, stakes, or netting. For more compact plants that typically stay below 6 feet, pinching them back can help manage their size.

When these plants reach about knee-high, it’s effective to prune the central stem. This not only helps in controlling height but also encourages the growth of smaller, more accessible branches.

Additionally, after your plants have flowered, it’s a good idea to remove the old blooms—a process known as deadheading. This prevents the plants from seeding and promotes continued blooming until the first frost, keeping your garden vibrant and productive longer.

Harvesting Amaranth Explained

To properly harvest amaranth, start observing when birds begin to peck at the plants or when seeds easily dislodge from their clusters with a gentle rub—this signals the right time to collect your amaranth.

Opt for a dry day to gather your seeds; simply bend the seed heads over a large bucket and snip them off. Afterward, remove the seeds in a sheltered, dry area. To clean, use a fan to blow away any debris, then spread the seeds on screens or trays and let them dry indoors.

Amaranth is wonderfully versatile with both its leaves and seeds edible. For a fresh addition to salads, pluck the smaller, softer leaves. The more mature leaves are excellent in a variety of cooked dishes like stir-fries and curries. The seeds, bearing a subtle nutty taste reminiscent of quinoa, are perfect for enriching a wide array of recipes.

To collect amaranth seeds, wait until late summer or fall. You can either shake the seed heads directly over a container or cut the heads off and hang them upside down in a bag, letting the seeds naturally fall over a few days.

• Harvesting Amaranth Leaves

You can pick amaranth leaves at any stage of growth. The smaller leaves are more tender, whereas the larger ones offer a richer flavor.

• Harvesting Amaranth Grains

If you’re aiming to harvest the grains, let your amaranth flower first. It’s fine to continue harvesting leaves during this phase, although the flavor might shift once the plant blooms.

After the flowers fully mature and begin to wither, trim them off and dry them further in paper bags. Once dry, thresh the flowers by beating them over a cloth or inside a bag to release the grains. Finally, use wind or water to separate the grains from their husks for a clean harvest.

Propagating Amaranth

If you’re keen on sprucing up your garden with amaranth, you’ll be pleased to know that these vibrant plants can easily reproduce on their own by dropping seeds.

But if you’re looking for a quicker way to expand your amaranth collection, try propagation through stem cuttings or by dividing the plant. These techniques not only speed up the process but also ensure your new plants are clones of the originals.

Here’s a straightforward guide to propagating amaranth with stem cuttings:

1. Gather your tools: a container with fresh, damp potting soil, sterilized pruning shears, clear plastic wrap, and some rooting hormone.
2. Snip a healthy stem just below a leaf node (where the leaf joins the stem), and strip off all but the top few leaves.
3. Dip the freshly cut end into the rooting hormone.
4. Insert the stem into your potting soil and cover with plastic wrap to mimic a mini greenhouse, keeping the moisture consistent.
5. After about two weeks, when new growth appears, remove the plastic and place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect light.

For division, which is ideal for mature plants:

1. Carefully lift the plant, whether from a pot or the ground, and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to divide the roots into sections, each with at least one stem and some roots.
2. Plant each section in similar lighting conditions and water them thoroughly.

Both methods will give your garden a boost with new, healthy amaranth plants in no time!

Growing Amaranth from Seed

Want to start your amaranth patch? It’s easier than you think! First, gather the seeds in autumn, ready to plant when the warmer days of late spring roll around. For outdoor sowing, just place the seeds about four inches apart once the soil feels warm to the touch, lightly covering them with a sprinkle of soil.

You’ll see the first signs of life within a week or two since these seeds germinate best when the soil temperature hits at least 50°F, though 68°F is ideal for quicker results. Once your seedlings appear, give them some room by thinning them to about 10 to 18 inches apart. If needed, you can even transplant them to a different spot with ease.

Thinking about starting indoors? Here’s a quick guide:

1. Fill your pots with a standard seed-starting mix.
2. Plant the seeds about 6 to 8 weeks before the expected last frost in your area.
3. Cover the seeds just a tad and keep the soil moist at around 60°F.
4. Once they sprout, make sure they get plenty of light to grow strong.
5. Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions to toughen them up before transplanting.

Potting and Repotting Amaranth

Amaranth thrives when potted in larger containers, ideally those that hold at least 10 gallons, to accommodate its potential size and lengthy roots. This versatile plant is suitable for hanging baskets, although the size of the basket will depend on the specific amaranth variety.

As a general rule, amaranth is an annual plant, which means it usually only requires a single container throughout its life cycle, unless it’s being transferred from a smaller seedling pot. When potting or repotting, opt for a well-draining soil mix and choose containers with several drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Overwintering Guide for Amaranth

Amaranth plants don’t survive the winter; however, they self-seed effectively, ensuring new growth once spring arrives. To maximize your amaranth crop, it’s crucial to plant the seeds when the soil temperature rises, as amaranth seeds require warmth to germinate and are susceptible to damage from late spring frosts.

For easier harvesting, it’s best to wait until after the first light frost of fall to collect mature plants. This timing helps in gathering the seeds more efficiently.

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Pests, Diseases And Common Growth Issues

Amaranth thrives in warm, arid conditions and is generally straightforward to cultivate, but you might encounter several common issues:

• Lack of Blooms: If your amaranth isn’t flowering, it’s probably due to insufficient sunlight. These plants require full sun exposure to produce blooms.
• Leaf Discoloration: Leaves turning brown typically indicate too much water. Given amaranth’s drought tolerance, underwatering is rarely the cause.
• Bird Damage: Birds are fond of amaranth seeds and may damage the blooms. Covering your plants with netting can protect your flowers, although it might restrict access for pollinators.

While amaranth is mostly easy to grow and resistant to many pests, it can still succumb to the same pests and diseases as other vegetables. Viral infections, manifesting as pale or mottled leaves, are incurable, and the affected plants should be disposed of immediately.

Since aphids are often virus carriers, keep an eye out for these pests and tackle small outbreaks by squashing them or using non-chemical treatments.

Flea beetles create tiny holes in the foliage, whereas larger holes might be due to nocturnal beetles or Japanese beetles. Lygus bugs, or plant bugs, pose a significant threat to nearly mature plants by feeding on them.

For aphids and weevils, consider insecticidal soaps and floating row covers as preventive measures, respectively. It’s wise to avoid commercial pesticides that come with harvesting restrictions or warnings about consumption, as these may contain harmful chemicals.

Root rot is another concern, especially in moist, compacted soils or during extended rainy periods. Once it sets in, affected plants should be removed. The best preventive measure against root rot is to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

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Encouraging Amaranth to Thrive and Bloom

Amaranth graces gardens with its vibrant flowers starting in midsummer and continues until the first frost. These stunning blooms are perfect for fresh bouquets. Alternatively, for a different twist, you can let the flowers mature, cut the entire stalk, and dry them inside a paper bag to preserve their beauty.

• Key Blooming Period

Expect amaranth to start showcasing its flowers in July, bringing a burst of color to your garden.

• Duration of Blooms

The flowering period for amaranth stretches from July right through to the onset of frost. Regularly deadheading the spent flowers will stimulate further blooming.

• Appearance and Aroma of Amaranth Flowers

Amaranth’s flowers are eye-catching with their droopy, fuzzy red clusters that emit a subtle, grass-like scent. They add a unique texture and a dash of warmth to any garden setting.

• Boosting Flower Production

To maximize flowering, make it a routine to deadhead or clip off old blooms. This not only encourages the plant to produce more flowers but also prevents it from self-seeding, which can help manage its spread in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What parts of amaranth are edible?

Amaranth stands out for its decorative red blossoms that, once faded, yield an abundance of tiny seeds arranged in elegant tassels. These seeds are versatile, commonly used as a grain alternative in dishes like porridge or as a natural thickener for soups and stews.

Beyond the seeds, amaranth leaves are also a culinary delight, offering a flavor akin to spinach. They’re perfect for enriching salads or any dish that calls for leafy greens.

• How should I harvest amaranth?

To gather amaranth grains, allow the plant to flower fully. Monitor the blossoms, and once they start to wither but before they brown, snip them off. Dry the cut flowers in a bag, then shake or tap them to dislodge the seeds onto a cloth.

Wash off any residual chaff and savor your harvest, which is particularly delicious when mixed into a porridge with other grains like millet and quinoa.

• What makes amaranth beneficial?

Amaranth seeds are prized as an ancient superfood, celebrated throughout history for their nutritious benefits. These tiny powerhouses are known for their health-enhancing properties and potential therapeutic benefits, making them a dual-purpose food and natural remedy.

• How can I ensure I’m growing the right amaranth variety?

For those looking to consume amaranth, it’s crucial to opt for annual varieties specifically cultivated for culinary use.

While most amaranth varieties are technically edible, including the striking ‘love-lies-bleeding’ and even common wild types, ensure they haven’t been exposed to pesticides. Edible varieties are usually chosen for their robust seed yield and flavorful leaves.

• Any tips for purchasing amaranthus plants?

Amaranthus typically starts from seeds, but you might come across young plants for sale online during the spring. Although most amaranthus types are edible, those specifically marketed for consumption usually boast superior seed production and more palatable leaves. Make sure they’re planted in a sunny area to thrive.

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