Amaranthus is a group of different species of grains that have been cultivated for over 8,000 years. Historians suggest that amaranth was considered the staple food of the Inca, Aztec, and Mayan civilizations. Although it is technically not a grain, amaranth has similar nutrients and uses as traditional cereals like wheat and oat.
This grain is also naturally completely gluten-free and is rich in protein, fiber, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, and iron. Some studies show that amaranth increases the activity of certain antioxidants which help protect the liver against damage caused by alcohol. It also lowers inflammation caused by chronic diseases and can aid in weight loss and maintaining cholesterol levels.
Let’s take a look at how to grow Amaranthus.
Soil
Amaranth plant tends to thrive in well-drained loamy soils that are slightly acidic in nature. However, they can be grown in all types of soils. The soil must be prepared to a fine tilth. Once thoroughly ploughed, the field should be divided into shallow trenches. Organic manure or balanced organic fertilizer should also be applied to the soil days before transplanting.
Climate
Amaranth is a frost-intolerant crop. Cold weather can even be damaged by spring frost. This crop thrives in warm weather as its seeds require warm soil to germinate properly. On a daily basis, it requires 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight. Usually, the best time to grow this crop is during the summer. However, some varieties of amaranth are annual and can be grown annually. This crop is popularly cultivated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.
Sowing
Amaranth crop is usually propagated by transplanting seedlings to the field. Sow amaranth seeds in pots that are kept indoors. The seedlings are ready to be transplanted once the seeds start to germinate. The seedlings must be transplanted in 2 rows that are 20 cm apart. Make sure that there is a 10 to 15 cm distance between each seedling as well.
Irrigation
It is important to water the amaranth plant properly because overwatering and underwatering can hinder the crop’s proper growth and development. Overwatering, especially when the soil is not well-draining, can lead to root rot or fungal diseases. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the leaves to prematurely dry and fall off. Therefore, it is important that water is pumped evenly throughout the field only when the soil is a little dry.
Fertilizer
The soil must be fed organic fertilizer before sowing the seeds. And when the crop has reached its active growing stage a nitrogen-rich fertilizer can be applied as topdressing at regular intervals. It is recommended to spray the field with urea after each harvest to increase the yield.
Pesticide and Disease Management
In India, the amaranth plant is grown as a leafy vegetable. Therefore, it is advised to avoid using chemical fungicides and insecticides in the case of infestations and diseases. You should inspect the crop at regular intervals to ensure that there is no pest infestation or disease. Remove and destroy all leaves and stems that are infested.
Do not overwater the plant as many diseases are a result of overwatering. Avoid planting the seedlings too deeply for proper air circulation and also make sure that you do not damage or create wounds on the surface of the plant from where the pathogens can enter.
Harvest
The leaves of the amaranth plant are ready to be harvested when they are big and full of flavour. If you are growing a cereal variety of amaranth crops, then you’ll know it is time to harvest the crop when the seeds fall away from the cluster when gently rubbed.
