How to Landscape With Amaranth

The grain amaranth has been cultivated since the 13th century, when the Aztecs grew it in Mexico. The flowers, which are attractive to butterflies, may be white, pink or lavender, and don't lose their color when they are dried. In fact, the name amaranth comes from the Greek word for "unfading." Whether you are landscaping with amaranth as a source of food or just for decoration, amaranth will be an attractive addition to your yard that needs little care.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Amaranth seeds
• Flowerpots
• Potting soil
• Fine sprayer
• Garden rake

1. Choose your seeds. Grain amaranth, such as Amaranthus cruentus and Amaranthus hypochondriacus, grows best in the Midwest and can grow up to 7 feet tall. The flower varieties of amaranth grow up to 2 feet tall, and bush varieties can grow up to 6 feet tall.

2. Start the seeds. Amaranth is very sensitive to frost, so for best results start seeds indoors eight weeks before the last frost. Fill flowerpots with potting soil, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top. Make a 1/2-inch indentation with your finger and drop in a few seeds.

3. Place the pots in a dark area and keep the soil moist by watering with a fine sprayer. Do not let the soil become saturated because the seeds will rot. When you see sprouts, move them to a sunny location.

4. Find the planting spot. Amaranth plants like full sun and well-drained soil. Consider the height and color of the variety you have selected and how it will look in your yard and alongside other plants.

5. Till the flower bed. Because weeds will likely be established by the time you plant the amaranth, you should till the area four times before planting. Pull any large weeds and then use a garden rake to turn the soil over.

6. Plant the seedlings in late May or early June. If there is a dry spell, water the plants with a garden hose one or two times per week.

References

• Amaranth
• How to Grow and Care for Amaranth Flower
• Starting Seeds Indoors