Amaranthus, a versatile and fascinating plant, offers both ornamental beauty and edible delights. With its vibrant foliage and captivating tassel-like flowers, amaranthus is a showstopper in any garden.

Whether you’re seeking to cultivate it for its stunning visual appeal or to harvest its nutritious leaves and seeds, growing and caring for amaranthus is a rewarding endeavor.

This ancient plant, once cherished by Aztec and Inca civilizations, continues to captivate gardeners and food enthusiasts alike.

From selecting the right location and preparing the soil to sowing the seeds and providing proper care, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to successfully grow and maintain amaranthus plants.

Annual Vegetative Calendar for Amaranthus

Amaranthus, known for its striking foliage and tassel-like flowers, is a versatile plant that adds color and texture to gardens. Here’s an annual vegetative calendar tailored for Amaranthus care.

Spring

Month	Tasks	Description
March	Seed Starting Indoors	Start Amaranthus seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in well-draining soil.
	Soil Preparation	Prepare garden beds by incorporating organic matter and ensuring well-draining conditions.
April	Transplanting	Harden off seedlings and transplant outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.
	Watering	Begin regular watering as temperatures rise, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
May	Mulching	Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep roots cool.

Summer

Month	Tasks	Description
June	Fertilization	Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage vigorous growth and blooming.
July	Deadheading	Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers and extend the blooming period.
August	Pest & Disease Monitoring	Monitor for pests and diseases, treating any issues promptly to prevent spread.

Fall

Month	Tasks	Description
September	Continued Bloom	Continue to enjoy blooms. Start reducing watering as temperatures begin to cool.
October	Harvest Seeds	If desired, collect seeds from spent flowers for next year’s planting.
November	Cleanup	After the first hard frost, remove and compost dead plant material to keep the area tidy and disease-free.

Winter

Month	Tasks	Description
December	Rest Period	Allow the garden to rest. Plan for next year’s garden and order seeds if needed.
January	Garden Planning	Start planning the garden layout and where to incorporate Amaranthus for the upcoming season.
February	Seed Starting Prep	Begin gathering supplies for starting seeds indoors if aiming for an early start and are in a cooler climate.

Caring for Amaranthus involves regular maintenance tasks such as watering, fertilizing, and deadheading, along with seasonal adjustments in care to ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms. By following this vegetative calendar, you can enjoy the unique beauty of Amaranthus in your garden from summer through fall.

Adjust planting and care schedules based on your local climate and weather conditions to ensure the best results.

How to Grow Amaranthus

• Amaranthus is a versatile plant that can be grown for its ornamental value as well as for its edible leaves and seeds.
• Start by selecting a suitable site for planting. Amaranthus prefers full sun to partial shade, so choose a location that receives adequate sunlight.
• Ensure that the soil is well-drained and moist. Amaranthus can tolerate different soil types, but it thrives in average, well-drained soil.
• Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds or debris. You can also improve the soil quality by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
• Sow the amaranthus seeds directly in the soil after the last frost date in your region. Space the seeds about 10 to 18 inches apart, as they don’t require much width for growth.
• Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and water gently to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, as amaranthus plants prefer moist but well-drained soil.
• As the plants grow, provide regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. However, be cautious not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
• Amaranthus plants generally do not require much fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
• Monitor the plants for pests and diseases, such as aphids or powdery mildew. If necessary, use organic pest control methods or consult a gardening expert for appropriate solutions.
• Depending on the variety, amaranthus plants will start to produce flowers in summer, fall, or winter. Enjoy the vibrant blooms and consider using them as cut flowers or dried for arrangements.
• Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender for culinary use. You can use them in salads, stir-fries, or steamed as a nutritious green vegetable.
• For seed harvesting, allow the flowers to fully mature and dry on the plant. Cut the flower heads and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area. Once dry, shake the flower heads to release the seeds, and store them in a cool, dry place for future use.

Where to Grow Amaranthus

• Amaranthus can be grown in various regions and climates, but it is important to consider the hardiness zones and temperature requirements.
• The specific hardiness zones for amaranthus can vary depending on the species and variety. Generally, it can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 11.
• Amaranthus is native to regions such as India, Africa, Peru, and South America.
• In terms of soil pH, amaranthus prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions. However, it can adapt to different soil pH levels.
• It is suitable for growing in gardens, home cottage gardens, or as part of an edible garden.
• Amaranthus plants can be grown directly in the ground or in containers, making them versatile for different gardening setups.
• Consider incorporating amaranthus into your garden borders or as part of a bedding scheme with other exotic-looking flowers like dahlias, zinnias, and sunflowers.
• If you live in a frost-free country, be aware that some species of amaranthus can be invasive. However, this is not typically an issue in regions like the UK.
• With proper care and suitable growing conditions, you can enjoy the beauty and nutritional benefits of growing amaranthus in your garden.

How to Plant Amaranthus

If you’re ready to dive into the world of growing amaranthus, there are a few things you need to know about planting these unique plants.

Site Selection: Amaranthus needs a site with good drainage and air circulation. It should be in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Amaranthus is a resilient plant that can thrive in any average well-drained soil.

Planting Time: The best time to plant amaranthus is a week or two after the last frost date in your region. You can continue to plant every two to three weeks to ensure continuous production.

Spacing: Since amaranthus plants are tall but not necessarily wide or bushy, you can plant them 10 to 18 inches apart. The closer you plant them, the better they look.

Soil Requirements: Amaranthus prefers moist but well-drained soil. The soil pH should be neutral or slightly acidic.

How to Care for Amaranthus

When it comes to taking care of your amaranthus plants, there are a few key things to remember.

Sunlight: These plants love the sun, and they do best in full to partial sun conditions. Make sure they’re getting plenty of light each day.

Watering: Amaranthus plants like moist soil, so regular watering is necessary. However, be careful not to overwater as they can tolerate dry conditions.

Fertilizing: While amaranthus is not particularly picky about its soil, providing a balanced fertilizer can help it thrive and produce more vibrant colors.

Pruning: Pruning isn’t typically necessary for amaranthus. However, if you want to encourage more bushy growth, you can pinch back the plant’s tips while it’s young.

Pests and Diseases: Amaranthus has few pest or disease problems. Still, keep an eye out for common issues like aphids, leaf miners, and fungal diseases.

Harvesting: If you’re growing amaranthus for its edible leaves or seeds, you can begin harvesting when the plants are well established. The leaves can be picked at any time, and the seeds are ready when they easily fall from the flower head.

Overwintering: As amaranthus is a frost-sensitive plant, it won’t survive harsh winter conditions. You can collect seeds at the end of the season to plant the following spring.

Other Considerations: Keep in mind that in frost-free countries, amaranthus can become an invasive plant, so manage its growth and spread accordingly.

In conclusion, growing and caring for amaranthus plants can be a rewarding experience. Not only do these plants add unique beauty to your garden, but they also offer edible leaves and seeds, packed with nutrition.

How to Prune Amaranthus

Pruning amaranthus plants is generally simple due to their sturdy and robust nature. You might find that these plants don’t require heavy pruning like other garden species. However, there are few things you might need to keep in mind:

• Keep it minimal: Unless the plant is looking particularly wild or unmanageable, a little touch-up here and there might be all that’s needed. Remember, you’re the artist, and the plant is your canvas!
• Remove the old to make way for the new: If you notice any dead, dying, or diseased stems or leaves, take them off. This promotes healthy growth and stops potential disease from spreading.
• Don’t be afraid of the scissors: If you have smaller varieties of amaranthus grown in pots, you might have to bring out the big guns. Use a sharp pair of garden scissors or pruners to shape the plant to your liking. But be careful, always make your cuts above a leaf node or set of leaves, this encourages branching and makes your plant bushier in the long run.

How to Propagate Amaranthus

Propagating amaranthus is a fun and rewarding process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

• Get your seeds ready: Amaranthus can easily be propagated from seeds. So, whether you’ve saved some from your last amaranthus harvest or you’ve bought new ones, get them ready for planting.
• Plant them right: You can either start your seeds indoors for early summer color or sow them directly into the soil outdoors. If you opt for the indoor route, do this in early spring. The seeds need to be sowed under cover, providing them enough warmth to germinate.
• Spacing matters: While planting seeds directly into the soil outdoors, make sure to plant them 10 to 18 inches apart. They may not be wide or bushy, but they do grow tall. This spacing helps them look their best.
• Keep them hydrated: The seeds need water for germination and during early growth stages. However, make sure the soil is well-drained. Amaranthus does not like wet feet!

Pests and Diseases

Although Amaranthus plants are quite sturdy and resistant, they are not immune to pests and diseases. Here’s what you should look out for:

• Insects: Aphids are the most common insect threat to amaranthus. They feed on the undersides of leaves, which can lead to yellowing and curling. In severe cases, plants can become stunted.
• Disease: Amaranthus can be susceptible to fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot. These are usually due to overwatering or poor air circulation. So, ensure your amaranthus is not waterlogged and has enough space to breathe.
• Animals: Birds love to eat amaranthus seeds. So, if you’re growing your plants for the seeds, make sure to protect them when they start to develop.

Remember, a little care goes a long way in keeping your Amaranthus plants healthy and vibrant.

Advice On Buying Amaranthus Plants

When considering buying an Amaranthus plant, a few factors should be taken into account.

Species variety: The type of Amaranthus you choose will depend on whether you’re interested in its ornamental attributes or its edible qualities. Some popular varieties include ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ for its tassel-like crimson flowers and the edible ‘Caribbean spinach’ or ‘Chinese Amaranth’.

Local Climate: Amaranthus plants are sun-loving half-hardy annuals. They thrive best in warmer conditions, especially in frost-free areas. In colder climates, they may need protection or indoor cultivation.

Growth Conditions: These plants do well in well-drained soil and require full sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day. Some varieties of Amaranthus can grow quite tall (up to 1.6m), so ensure you have adequate space if you are considering these larger species.

Purpose: If you’re planning on eating the leaves or seeds of your Amaranthus plant, be sure to choose a variety specifically bred for this purpose. Many varieties are highly nutritious and are a great addition to an edible garden.

Birds: If you’re interested in attracting wildlife, keep in mind that birds are particularly fond of Amaranthus seeds. Growing Amaranthus can be an excellent method of providing wild bird food.

Where to Buy Amaranthus Plants Online

As online shopping has become increasingly popular, a variety of reliable sites offer Amaranthus plants for sale.

Always consider the reputation of the seller, the quality of the plants, the shipping conditions, and your local climate before making a purchase.

Seller Reputation: Ensure the online store or seller has a good reputation. Read reviews and ratings by other customers to make an informed decision.

Quality: The quality of the plants should be high, and they should be grown organically. Many online stores provide details about their cultivation methods, such as whether they use certified organic potting mixes and fertilizers.

Shipping: Before placing an order, confirm whether the store delivers to your location. Some sellers may have restrictions on shipping to certain states or regions.

Climate: Some online stores require you to specify the state or region you’re shipping to, in order to ensure the plants are suitable for your local climate.

Amaranthus Varieties to Grow

There are numerous varieties of Amaranthus that can be grown, each offering different aesthetic and nutritional benefits.

Love Lies Bleeding: This is a popular flowering variety, known for its dramatic tassel-like crimson flowers. It is ornamental and can make a great addition to a flower bed or border.

Amaranthus Tricolour: Also known as Chinese Spinach, this variety is an edible amaranth with red tinged leaves. It is known to produce the best colour in very warm conditions and can grow up to 1.6 meters tall.

Amaranthus Garnet Red: This cultivar is known for its deep, intense crimson red colouring. It’s highly vigorous, drought hardy once established, and requires full sun for at least 6 hours a day.

Amaranthus Caudatus: Also known as “Love-Lies-A-Bleeding,” this is an easy-to-grow variety with fascinating tassels of chenille-ruby blooms. It reaches full height in 30 days and blooms for months.

Whether you’re interested in growing Amaranthus for its vibrant, decorative appearance, its edible qualities, or to attract birds, you’ll find a variety suitable for your needs and your garden’s conditions.

Remember to pay attention to each variety’s specific growing requirements to ensure the best results.

FAQs

Additional Resources

Here are some additional resources for further information on growing and caring for Amaranthus:

• How to Grow and Care for Amaranth – The Spruce
• How to Grow Amaranthus | BBC Gardeners World Magazine
• How to Grow and Care for Love-Lies-Bleeding – The Spruce
• Growing Amaranth: The Complete Guide to Plant, Grow, & Harvest Amaranth
• How To Grow And Care For Amaranthus – Bunnings Australia

Please note that the information provided in these resources can offer more detailed guidance on growing and caring for Amaranthus plants.