SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Barely cover 1/16"
Starting Indoors:
Six weeks before last frost, sow thinly into pots filled with a mix specifically for seed germination. Keep at 65-75°F with evenly moist conditions by placing a humidity dome over the containers until germination occurs, or by sprinkling a thin cover of vermiculite over the pots.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow after last frost.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After all danger of frost has passed. Be careful not to disturb the roots.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Amaranth 'Hopi Red Dye' is a traditional amaranth grown for generations on Hopi lands, growing well in heat and tolerating dry soils. The greens are delicious and very high in important vitamins and minerals; the abundant tiny seeds are a popular and nutritious grain. Grow with Cosmos and Mexican sunflower in borders or in veggie gardens with tall marigolds. Self-sows, sometimes excessively, pull these and add to salads!
Watering Details:
Drought tolerant. 1" a week until fully established; then water during dry spells.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
If soils are particularly poor, mix in an organic granular fertilizer once seedlings have reached 6-8" in height. Avoid excess fertilizer.
Diseases & Pests:
Tarnished plant bugs can infest flower heads. Use an organic insecticide to control. Provide freely-draining soils, for, in wet soils, emerging seedlings may die from soil pathogens. Overly moist soils also encourage various fungal root and stem rots on mature plants, causing collapse.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest for fresh cuts when 1/2 to 3/4 of the florets are open.
