Young leaves are packed full of healthful nutrients and can be used fresh in salads or steamed. The burgundy inflorescence is showy, beautiful in arrangements, and in a flower garden. Hopi Red Dye Amaranth seeds are edible and harvested for grain. The flower bracts are used for a natural red dye.

100seeds

PLANTING

Amaranthus cruentus

Germination:10-15 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 70-80F

Seed Planting Depth:On the surface, lightly cover.

Sowing IndoorsStart indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-80F soil temperature. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot.Thin to the strongest seedling. Transplant after last frost, 6-12″ apart.

Sowing Outdoors:After the last frost when the soil temperature reaches70F. Sow a few seeds every 3-6″, thin to 6-12″ apart.

Harvest:Start pickingyoung leaves when the plants are 12″ tall.

Tips: Hopi Red Dye Amaranth should be planted infertile, well-drained soil.Amend with compost or well-rotted manure.Pinch plants back to encourage young leavesto grow.