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How to Grow Amaranth Annual Flowers
Annuals Amaranth, or Globe Amaranth as they are often called, are easy to grow. Bright, ball-shaped flowerheads last for weeks in the flowerbed. They are excellent for dried flowers, retaining their color and shape. Ancient Greeks named this plant for the Greek word for "unfading". The Amaranth is actually a family of plants, including flowers, herbs, and weeds. Some varieties are grown and harvested for food. The seeds of the "Grain Amaranth" were harvested by Aztec and Inca tribes in Central and South America. In Asia and South America Amaranth is cultivated as a grain crop. In the U.S., it can be found in health food stores. Amaranths colors, include shades of pink, lavender, and white. Common flower varieties grow 1'-2' tall. Some bush varieties will grow up to 4'-6'. The bright, long lasting flowers attract butterflies.
Propagation: Amaranth are grown from seed. They can be directly seeded into your flower garden, or started indoors for transplanting later. Amaranth prefers warm weather.Sow or transpalnt outdoors after the soil has begun to warm in the spring and the risk of frost is over. We recommend an indoor start, six to eight weeks before the last frost in your area. Sow seeds early in the season and cover lightly with soil. Space seeds or seedlings 10-14" apart. They will tolerate a little crowding, and look good in clumps or groups. A whole lot of seeds. Amaranth produce a lot of seeds. A single mature Amaranth bush can produce 40,000-60,000 seeds!
How to Grow Amaranth: Amaranth are very easy to grow. They prefer a warm climate, full sun, and a well drained soil. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a season. Originating in warmer climates, Amaranth is heat and drought resistant. Amaranth will grow tall, 1-2 feet. They will produce of blooms on strong, straight stems. Flowers are long lasting, and will bloom from mid summer until frost. For dried flower arrangements, pick mature blooms and allow to dry in a cool, dry, well ventilated area. The dried flowers will retain their color and will brighten up a room all winter long.
Insect and Disease: Insect and disease problems are infrequent. Treat with insecticides, repellents, or fungicide as needed.
More Information: Heating Mats- for an overall healthy start for your seedlings. |
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