Tower Red Amaranthus Seed

Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)

• Timing: Sow annual Amaranthus seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost date, when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Amaranthus thrives in warm weather and is frost-sensitive.
• Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Amaranthus grows well in sandy or loamy soils and tolerates poor soil conditions.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Amaranthus prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
• Planting Seeds:
  • Sow seeds on the soil surface and press them lightly to ensure good contact. Do not cover with soil, as Amaranthus seeds need light to germinate.
  • Space seeds or thin seedlings to 10-18 inches apart, depending on the variety.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days. Once established, Amaranthus is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods.

Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)

• Timing: Start Amaranthus seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
• Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Planting:
  • Sow seeds on the soil surface and press gently to ensure contact. Do not bury seeds deeply.
  • Mist the soil gently to keep it evenly moist without waterlogging.
• Germination:
  • Maintain a temperature of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
  • Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-14 days.
• Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 10-18 inches apart, depending on the variety.

General Care Tips for Annual Amaranthus

• Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Amaranthus tolerates partial shade but may grow less vigorously.
• Watering: Water consistently during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as Amaranthus prefers well-draining soil.
• Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Amaranthus is a light feeder and typically does not require additional fertilization during its growing season.
• Pruning: Regularly pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding and prolong blooming.
• Pest and Disease Control: Amaranthus is relatively pest-resistant but may attract aphids or flea beetles. Treat with insecticidal soap if necessary. Proper spacing ensures good airflow, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Harvesting:
  • For Flowers: Harvest blooms when they are fully open for fresh arrangements or when heads are dry for dried arrangements. Cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage further blooming.
  • For Seeds: Allow seed heads to mature and dry on the plant. Harvest seeds by cutting the heads and shaking them into a container.
• Storage: Store dried flowers and seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year. Use fresh flowers immediately for the best appearance.