Amaranth: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
How do you sow amaranth under cover?
Start annual garden amaranths under cover when you can provide warmth and good light. Sowing too early in a dark room produces weak seedlings. Work back from the time when you will be able to plant them outdoors after the last frosts, and check the instructions for your chosen species or variety. An early start is useful only if you can keep the seedlings growing well.
Use clean small pots or cell trays with drainage holes. Fill them with fine seed compost that is moist but not waterlogged. Scatter the tiny seeds sparingly and cover them lightly, following the depth on the packet. Label each container so you can distinguish ornamental amaranths from selections intended for leaves or grain.
Keep conditions evenly warm, around 15–22 °C for commonly cultivated forms, while checking the needs of your selection. Water gently so the seeds stay in place. A clear cover can slow drying; ventilate it and remove it after germination. Give the seedlings good light. Retain the strongest seedling in each cell without pulling at neighbouring roots. Before planting out, gradually accustom the young amaranths to outdoor conditions and keep their root balls intact.
How do you sow amaranth outdoors?
When and how should you harvest amaranth?
