How to grow globe amaranth from seed? The latest detailed planting guide

Globe amaranth is a common flower in tropical and subtropical regions, native to tropical America. It is an annual upright herbaceous plant in the amaranth family (Amaranthaceae), genus Gomphrena. It is widely grown south of the Yangtze River in China. Its flower heads last a long time and, besides being used in flower beds and bonsai, can also be made into wreaths, flower baskets and other decorations. Let's take a look below at how to grow globe amaranth from seed!

Sowing time

Globe amaranth seeds are usually harvested from September to October, sown from April to May, and the seedlings transplanted in June. The seedlings grow slowly. In spring, sow from April to May in an open-air seedbed. The suitable sowing temperature is 20-25°C.

Seed treatment

Because globe amaranth seeds are covered in fine hairs, they germinate slowly. To speed up germination, treat the seeds before sowing. Before sowing, soak the seeds in warm water for one day or in cold water for two days, then squeeze out the water. When slightly dry, mix with plant ash or fine sand in an amount 2-3 times that of the seeds to loosen them and make sowing easier.

Sowing method

Globe amaranth seeds are relatively large, about 400 seeds per gram. An ordinary sowing bed can be used. It is best to choose a sandy loam plot with plenty of sunlight, a high water table, good drainage and loose, fertile soil as the seedbed.

Management after sowing

After sowing globe amaranth, cover lightly with soil and keep the temperature at 20-25°C. Seedlings emerge in about 10-15 days. Once the seedlings have all emerged, thin them once so they have some space to grow without shading each other. After thinning, water with a 1000-fold urea solution. After fertilizing, spray the leaves promptly to prevent the fertilizer from burning the seedlings.