Sow amaranth seeds directly outdoors after fear of frost (anytime 5/20 - 7/20). Seed planting depth: scatter on top of soil and pat seeds (seeds need light to germinate). Keep seeds constantly moist until germination. Days to germination: 10 - 21. For baby greens, sow seeds 1” apart. For full size plants, sow groups of 4 seeds together – space groups 20” apart. Thin to strongest 1 plant. Magenta seedlings are easy to identify.
Microgreens – cut entire plant when 1” tall. Baby greens – cut entire plant with scissors when 2 - 4” tall. For cooking, harvest entire plant up to 8” tall. Harvest individual leaves anytime.
Start seeds May/early June for seed that will be ready in September. Amaranth is wind pollinated but Amaranthus cruentus is uncommon, so crossing is unlikely. Minimum population size: 5 - 25. Shake ripe seeds from plants or clip plants and dry them in paper or cloth bags. Seeds will fall to the bottom of the bags. Winnow if desired.
Our Recommendations with Hopi Red Dye Organic Amaranth