SpringSummerFallWinter

About Amaranth

Amaranth is both a leaf green and a grain. Young leaves cook like spinach; mature seed heads yield a tiny gluten-free grain. It loves heat and is often grown as an annual.

When to Plant

Direct-sow after last frost through summer. It will not thank you for cold soil.

How to Plant

Sow ¼ inch deep (not “¼ inches”). Direct-sown seed germinates in warm soil. Thin to 10–12 inches for leaf, 12–18 inches for grain. Full sun, average soil.

When to Harvest

Greens can be cut and used like spinach from 4–6 inches on. For grain, wait until seed heads dry and birds take interest; rub heads into a bag and winnow.