Amaranth provides a burst of color in your garden, and also has edible seeds and leaves that are very good sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetable amaranth (Amaranthus gangeticus (syn.A.tricolor) actually has three times as much iron as spinach.
Amaranth is an annual that is native central Mexico and has its origins in the traditional cultures of Mesoamerica.
This is a sun loving plant that does well in the heat. Plant your seeds about 1 ½ inches apart. Well draining soil is critical for proper growth. Soil temperatures should be at least 65 degrees F for proper germination. As the seeds are small, a fine mulch, such as straw, can help keep the soil in place. Amaranth does well in sandy soils, but adding a good dose of organic compost is recommended.
Regular watering is necessary to grow amaranth, but don’t over do it. It is a good idea to trim back your plant to encourage growth and produce seed heads.
See this site from Purdue University http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/proceedings1993/v2-211.html for more information on amaranth.
