Smooth Amaranth

Water Indented Amaranth moderately to frequently during the growing season, usually twice or 3 times a week. During the hotter months of the summer, increase the frequency to 3 to 4 times a week to ensure the soil remains moist. Water deeply to encourage strong and deep root growth. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months and limit it to only once per week or if not needed at all. Partial shade will help the plant from drying out during the summer months.

Indented Amaranth (Amaranthus blitum subsp. emarginatus), a heat-loving species, requires full sun for optimum growth. It should be planted in a location that offers at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. The ideal time to provide this sunlight would be in the early morning hours, when the sun is strongest and the hours of daylight are increasing. Avoid midday exposure as this can cause the plant to become stressed. Indented Amaranth can also benefit from some afternoon sun, though depending on your climate, it is best to avoid intense afternoon sunlight. Temperature is also important for optimal growth and should remain above 65°F (18°C).

Indented Amaranth should be pruned lightly in the late spring, when new growth is just emerging. Prune off any dead or diseased stems and foliage. Remove any stems that are growing in a crowd, particularly if the leaves are wilting or turning pale. Reduce the overall size of the plant by removing stems that are crossing over each other, and trim any overly vigorous growth back to its point of origin. Pruning should be done sparingly, as too much trimming can remove the flower buds. Pruning Indented Amaranth should be done lightly and early, before the blooms appear.