When to Plant Amaranth in Perth — Mediterranean Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Amaranth is a heat-loving leafy green and grain crop originating from Central America, now widely grown across tropical and subtropical Australia. Leaf amaranth varieties produce abundant, nutritious greens rich in iron, calcium and vitamins A and C. It thrives where lettuce and spinach bolt, making it the go-to summer green for warm climates.
Planting Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S/T/D | S/T/D | T | — | — | — | — | — | S/D | S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D |
S = Seed Tray T = Transplant D = Direct Sow
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 21.9°C (optimal range: 18–35°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Amaranth in Mediterranean Australia
When to Plant
Sow October-February. Good growing conditions during warm dry summers. Autumn rains signal end of season.
- Soil
- Well-drained, fertile loam enriched with compost. Tolerates a wide range of soils including sandy and clay, provided drainage is adequate.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.5
- Sunlight
- Full sun (minimum 6-8 hours). Will tolerate light afternoon shade in extreme heat.
- Spacing
- 25cm apart, 45cm between rows
- Watering
- Water deeply 2-3 times per week once established. Drought tolerant once mature but produces best leaf quality with consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogging. Drip irrigation preferred.
Companion plants: Corn, Tomato, Eggplant, Lettuce (amaranth provides shade), Marigold
Avoid planting near: Brassicas (nutrient competition), Fennel
Mediterranean Growing Tips for Amaranth
Recommended Varieties
- Red Leaf Amaranth
- Alegria (grain)
- Golden Giant
Key Challenges
- Summer water restrictions may limit irrigation
- Hot north winds can scorch young plants
- Can self-seed aggressively in garden
Pro Tips
- Excellent summer crop for Perth and Adelaide gardens
- Mulch heavily and use drip irrigation to manage water restrictions
- Harvest regularly to prevent plants becoming woody
Harvesting Amaranth
When ready: Leaf amaranth: harvest when leaves are 10-15cm long for baby greens, or let plants reach 30-40cm for full-size leaves. Grain amaranth: harvest when seed heads droop and seeds fall easily when rubbed.
How to harvest: Cut-and-come-again: cut leaves or tops 10cm above ground level and plants will reshoot. For grain: cut entire seed heads, dry in paper bags, thresh by rubbing between hands.
Common Amaranth Pests in Mediterranean Zones
Organic prevention: Companion plant with marigolds and basil. Maintain good garden hygiene. Remove amaranth family weeds. Delay planting until soil is warm; vigorous seedlings outgrow damage.
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