How to Harvest Amaranth

Amaranth is a grain that has been used for centuries all throughout the world. Most commonly used are the seeds, which are plentiful in every plant. The seeds can be used to make both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and desserts and even milled into flour. Crops of amaranth can grow almost anywhere, whether it be in the dry earth of Mexico or in the tropical climate of the Amazon. In order to get the most use out of amaranth seeds, they must be harvested at the right time using the proper methods.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Gardening shears
• Newspaper

1. Examine the plants daily to see when the seeds begin to fall. It is best to harvest amaranth within a couple days of this happening. It normally takes four to five months after they are planted for this to happen.

2. Cut the tops of the plants off, and lay them on a newspaper. All of the seeds are stored in the tops, so handle them carefully.

3. Let the plants dry in the sun for a week. If there is a risk of rain, put the amaranth in a spot away from the rain.

4. Crush the amaranth heads once they start to feel brittle. Separate the seeds from the other debris from the plant. The seeds can now be used.

References

• Farm Radio: Grain Amaranth-Beautiful and Nutritious
• ChetDay: Amaranth-A Healthy Grain for Vegetarian Recipes