Grow Amaranth at home

Amaranth is a ancient grain plant packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It is also natural gluten free.

I generally sow seeds directly in the garden once the weather warms up, allowing them to flourish naturally and providing a continuous supply of greens and seeds throughout the season.

But it can also be smart to start the plants indoors if you have a short growing season.

You can use this easy tool I have made to find your USDA hardiness zone and Typical last frost dates based on the zip code where you live:

Soil Preparation

This resilient plant thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil that holds moisture without becoming soggy. Aim for a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 for peak performance.

I like to enhance my soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage, mixing in a balanced ratio to create the perfect environment for my amaranth.

The Importance of Good Soil

Before starting to grow, it’s essential to assess the condition of the soil in your garden. The best soil is a blend of mineral-rich dirt and organic matter. In my garden, I compost as much as possible to enrich the soil with nutrients. I use both hot composting for food scraps and cold composting for organic garden waste.

If you don’t have the time or space to compost, you can purchase compost from garden centers or use community composting programs. Learn more about community composting here: Learn more about community composting here.

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Hot Composting bin

One insulated compost bin designed for cold regions is the Exaco Aerobin 400. It holds 113 gallons and doesn’t need turning thanks to its patented “lung” system. Plus, the built-in reservoir collects compost tea, which can be used as fertilizer.

The Exaco Aerobin 400 is available for $343.79. Check the latest price on Amazon.

Where I live I get a large tax refund every year for composting may own organic waste. Due to this saving I was able to break even on the cost at only two year use. I recommend you to check with your local government if you can receive any tax refund.

How to grow

Amaranth loves the sun! Ensure the planting area receives at least six hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth. The warmth encourages healthier plants and a better yield.

Start planting amaranth seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, when the soil is warm, usually in late spring.

Plant seeds about 12 inches apart. As they sprout, they’ll form a lovely bush that looks great in any garden.

Keeping the soil consistently moist but not saturated in the early stages.

Once established, amaranth plants require less frequent watering. They’re drought-tolerant and have deep roots that help them thrive even in tougher conditions.

If you’re growing for seeds, wait until the flower heads mature before harvesting. For greens, you can start snipping the leaves once the plants are about 6 inches tall.

Raised beds work well for growing amaranth.

Using Mulch

Mulch protects the soil by regulating temperature and retaining moisture. Organic mulch like straw or compost insulates the soil and keeps roots warmer, which is especially important in spring and fall.

Mulch also helps retain moisture by reducing evaporation, which means less time watering and less stress on plants. It is especially helpful in raised beds and containers where soil dries out faster. Additionally, mulch controls weeds, stopping them from competing with your vegetables for nutrients.

The Sun Joe CJ603E Wood Chipper is an affordable and effective option for creating mulch from branches up to 1.7 inches thick. It’s available for $199. Check the latest price on Amazon.

Watering and Feeding

Amaranth plants appreciate consistent moisture, especially as they establish themselves. Water regularly, but avoid over-saturating the soil to keep those roots happy and healthy.

You don’t need to fertilize much, as a god soil will provide the necessary nutrients. However, a boost with a balanced fertilizer can help if the plants show signs of nutrient deficiency.

Care and Maintenance

1. Regularly check for pests, especially aphids and beetles, and act quickly if needed.
2. Keep the area around amaranth weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients.
3. Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, allowing the strongest plants to flourish.
4. Consistently monitor moisture levels to keep plants healthy.

Harvesting

Harvest amaranth leaves once the plants are around 6 inches tall, cutting them at the base of the stem for a cleaner look. For seeds, wait until the seed heads turn brown and dry.

Uses in food

Amaranth leaves can be used in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or added to soups for extra nutrition.

For the seeds there are a lot of uses, and that is the main reason this is one of the most useful plants you can grow.

Here are ways you can use the seeds in different meals:

• As a breakfast cereal
• Used as a rice substitute
• Added to grain bowls and salads
• Bread (as flour or whole seeds)
• Muffins and scones
• Cookies and biscuits
• Pancakes and waffles
• Crackers
• Thickener for soups and stews
• Roasted and seasoned seeds
• Energy bars and protein bars
• Granola
• Amaranth milk (similar to oat milk)
• Added to smoothies (as seeds or powder)
• Alegría – a sweet treat made with popped amaranth
• Atole – a hot drink made with ground amaranth
• Gluten-free pasta alternative
• Puddings (as a thickener or main ingredient)
• Ice cream topping (popped amaranth)
• Filler in veggie burgers
• Added to pestos and dips for extra nutrition

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best spacing? Amaranth plants should be spaced 10-12 inches apart for optimal growth. What are the different plant varieties? There are several varieties of amaranth, including grain, leaf, and ornamental types. What is the plant height? Amaranth plants can grow between 2 to 8 feet tall, depending on the variety. Can you grow them in containers? Yes, amaranth can be grown in containers as long as there is sufficient space for root development. What are the different plant uses? Amaranth is used for its leaves, seeds, and flowers, and can be consumed as a leafy green, grain, or ornamental plant. What are the benefits of the amaranth plant? Amaranth is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and it is gluten-free, making it a nutritious addition to diets. In what grow zone can it be grown? Amaranth can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 through 11.