🌱 How to Grow Amaranth (Chawli Bhaji) from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: चवली भाजी (Chawli Bhaji) / राजगीरा (Rajgira)

• Tamil: கீரை (Keerai)

• Telugu: చావలి ఆకులు (Chawali Aakulu)

• Malayalam: ചവലി സാഗ് (Chawali Saag)

• Kannada: ಚವಲಿ ಸಾಗಿ (Chawali Saagi)

• English: Amaranth / Amaranthus

• Botanical name: Amaranthus spp.

1. Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season leafy vegetable

• Best time to sow: March to June or August to September

• Thrives in warm weather, sensitive to frost

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile loamy or sandy loam soil

• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

• Enrich soil with compost or well-rotted manure

3. Sow the Seeds

• Sow seeds directly in the garden or container

• Depth: Sow seeds shallowly, about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep

• Spacing: Thin to keep 6–8 inches between plants

• Water lightly after sowing

4. Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

• Water regularly, especially during dry weather

• Mulching helps conserve moisture

5. Germination

• Seeds germinate in 5–10 days

• Thin seedlings early to avoid overcrowding

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Needs 5–6 hours of sunlight daily

• Grows best at 20°C to 30°C

• Tolerates heat well but not frost

7. Fertilization

• Apply balanced compost or organic fertilizer at planting

• Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer during growth phase

• Avoid excess nitrogen to prevent too much leafy growth with poor flavor

8. Pest Control

• Common pests: Aphids, flea beetles, leaf miners

• Use neem oil spray or insecticidal soap as needed

• Keep garden clean and weed-free

9. Harvesting

• Ready to harvest in 30–45 days after sowing

• Pick outer leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth

• Can harvest tender shoots for cooking multiple times

10. Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from mature flowering plants

• Dry seeds properly and store in a cool, dry place for next season

• Can be grown as an annual or short-lived perennial in frost-free climates

🌿 Health Benefits of Amaranth

• High in protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K

• Rich in antioxidants and minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium

• Supports digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes heart health

• Gluten-free and good for managing blood sugar levels