Asia Red Edible Amaranth Plant

Asia Red Edible Amaranth Plant is the most uniquely colored edible amaranth, being a combination of light spring green and vivid fuchsia. Used widely as an ornamental amaranth, this edible leaf does double duty, adding amazing color and excitement to fresh salads and Asian or Vietnamese cuisine. Remarkably easy to grow, plant where it is easily accessible for harvesting; in beds or containers on or near the closest door to your kitchen, provided it has full sun, would be ideal!

Planting Instructions:

• - Transplant when soil temperatures reach 65°F

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0
• - Well-drained, fertile soil with moderate organic matter

Watering Specifics:

• - Keep soil consistently moist until germination
• - Water regularly, especially during dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting
• - Side-dress with compost tea monthly

Pruning and Training:

• - Pinch off flower heads to encourage leaf production
• - Thin plants to 6-8 inches apart for proper growth

Pollination:

• - Wind-pollinated, no special requirements

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for aphids and leaf miners
• - Use insecticidal soap if pest problems persist

Harvesting Indicators:

• - Harvest young leaves for salads when plants are 6-8 inches tall
• - For grain, harvest when seeds are dry on the plant

Storage:

• - Store fresh leaves in the refrigerator for up to a week
• - Store dried seeds in an airtight container for up to a year

Companion Plants:

• - Onions: Deter pests
• - Corn: Provides support
• - Tomatoes: Benefit from similar growing conditions