Amaranth, Edible Red Leaf Amaranth Seeds – Heirloom

Variety Info.: Botanical Name: Amaranthus tricolor Days to Maturity: 40–63 days Family: Amaranthaceae Native: Asia Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual Plant Dimensions: 12″–24″ tall; varieties grown for grain can get 3′ or more. Variety Information: Medium green oval leaves with burgundy red stems and centers. Looks a bit like coleus. Attributes: Heat Tolerant   Sowing Info.: When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date; however, grows fastest when temperatures are warm. Soil temperature for germination should be at least 55°F, ideally 68°–75°F. When to Start Inside: 6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date. Sow in biodegradable pots; roots sensitive to disturbance. Days to Emerge: 5 – 15 days Seed Depth: &?#8539;”–¼” Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 6″ Row Spacing: 12″ Thinning: When 1″ tall, thin to 1 every 6″   Growing Info.: Harvesting: FOLIAGE: Young leaves have a milder flavor than mature leaves. However, leaves are edible before plant blooms, between 7 and 9 weeks. The iron content of the plant doubles between the 7th and 9th week. SEED: Wait until seeds are mature and dry. Pull up plant and hang upside down in a warm, dry place; when completely dry, shake seed heads into paper bag. Seeds should be stored in an airtight container. One square yard of amaranth can produce 2 pounds of seed!