A touch of color: how to grow red amaranth microgreens

Hi again! We’re back with another installment in our series exploring how to grow different types of microgreens.

This time, we’re talking about red amaranth. We think it’s an amazing option to include in your meals, not just because of its nutritional value, but also thanks to its striking pink or reddish color, which makes for a beautiful decorative touch. We absolutely love red amaranth in our office because it adds a vibrant splash of color that contrasts beautifully with all the greens.

Let’s dive into how to grow this microgreen. Heads up: it requires a bit more attention than lettuce or broccoli microgreens, which we covered in previous articles.

What you’ll need

• Red amaranth seeds – You can find them in specialty stores or order them online.
• Trays – Use shallow trays with good drainage.

• Growing medium – High quality potting soil. We use coconut coir mixed with compost.
• Spray bottle or fine mist watering can.
• Light – Red amaranth needs plenty of light, either direct sunlight or LED grow lights if you’re growing indoors.

Step by step: how to grow red amaranth

1. Prepare the tray – Always clean it thoroughly with water and soap.
2. Add the growing medium – Slightly moisten the soil before sowing.
3. Sow the seeds – Spread the seeds evenly. Unlike other varieties, red amaranth germinates best without being covered with soil.
4. Water gently – Use a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the seeds.
5. Cover the tray – For the first few days, you can cover it with another tray to create a blackout effect.
6. Light – Once the seeds have germinated, place the tray in a well lit spot.
7. Consistent watering – Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
8. Harvest – Ready in 2 to 3 weeks. Use scissors to cut just above the soil.

And that’s it, ready to enjoy!

As we mentioned, red amaranth is not only tasty, it also adds a stunning pop of color to your dishes. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a gourmet garnish.

See you next time!

Carlota

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The science on red amaranth

Studies from our Science Library that concern red amaranth microgreens, in plain language with links to the original research. This list updates automatically as new studies are added.

Red amaranth in the kitchen

Recipes and kitchen ideas from our cookbook team that use red amaranth microgreens.

Growing a different crop next? Every variety has a guide like this one in the Varieties database.