Save money and grow this nutritious superfood at home.
Quinoa plants need plenty of sunlight, nutrient-rich, well-draining soil, and warm temperatures to thrive.
How to Plant Quinoa
When to Plant
Quinoa is sensitive to frost.
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However, keep in mind that quinoa plants can be harmed by high heat.
An ideal spot may be one that doesn’t receive harsh, midday sunlight.
Within a row, space each seed about 2 inches apart, and plant them about 1/4 inch deep.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Quinoa plants should be staked, especially in areas that get severe thunderstorms and strong winds.
These plants can become top-heavy as they mature.
Any sort of stake or structure should do, as long as it’s sturdy.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
However, partial shade from the most intense heat of the day is recommended.
Soil
Quinoa plants grow best in well-drained,loamysoil that is high in organic matter.
Before planting, the soil should be amended withcompostor fertilizer.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Once the seedlings are several inches tall, mulch around the seedlings to prevent weeds and retain moisture.
Water
Quinoa seedlings require consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil until they are established.
Mature quinoa plants are considered relatively drought-tolerant, although they appreciate regularwatering.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Let the soil dry out slightly and then water thoroughly.
Ideal temperatures for quinoa plants range between 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 25 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
Fertilizer
Quinoa plants require rich soil that is high in organic matter.
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Before planting, amend the soil with fresh compost or a balancedorganic fertilizer.
Beyond this soil preparation, quinoa plants do not require fertilization during the growing period.
quinoaandAmaranthusspecies look about the same to the untrained eye and can produce flowers and seeds of multiple colors.
Both are gluten-free, and both are sometimes referred to as “ancient grains.”
Harvesting
Quinoa plants are ready for harvest 90-120 days after planting.
Fortunately, quinoa is simple to harvestthe seeds can be stripped upwards towards the stalk which easily dislodges them.
Once harvested, sift the fresh quinoa seeds using a grain sifter.
Before storing, the quinoa seeds need to be thoroughly dried out.
Pruning
There is no real need to prune quinoa plants.
Toppling over should not be an issue if the plant is properly staked.
Soil temperature should be around 60 degrees Fahrenheit for seeds to sprout.
Before planting, prepare the garden bed by gently turning the soil and adding a layer of fresh compost.
Space rows of seeds 12 inches apart, and 2 inches apart along each row.
Plant 2-3 seeds together to ensure that at least one survives in each spot.
Quinoa seeds take approximately 4-5 days to germinate.
Once seedlings sprout, thin out the rows to ensure there is only one plant every 10-12 inches.
Keep seeds and seedlings consistently moist until well-established.
Quinoa plants are usually ready for harvest 90-120 days after planting.
Generally, quinoa plants are hardy plants that are susceptible to few serious pests or diseases.
In the right environment, quinoa is easy to grow.
Keep this in mind when planning how many individual plants you want to grow.
From seed to harvest, growing quinoa can take up to four months.
Yes, quinoa leaves are edible.
