GardenHow to grow amaranth (chaulai)
चौलाई. When to sow it in each part of India, how deep, how far apart, what size of pot, and what to watch for.
When to sow
North and central plainsMarch and April, June and July
South and coastal IndiaFebruary to April, June and July, September and October
HillsApril to June
Green months are the usual sowing or planting time. Dates shift by a few weeks from place to place.
How to sow and grow
- Method
- Sow the seed straight where the plant will grow.
- Depth
- 0.5 cm
- Spacing
- Scatter thinly, or rows 20 cm apart
- In a pot
- Any box or pot 15 to 20 cm deep
- Sprouts in
- 3 to 7 days
- Harvest
- 25 to 35 days
- Sun
- Full sun: at least 6 hours a day
Tips from the garden
- Chaulai is the leafy green for the hot months, when palak and methi will not grow.
- Mix the tiny seed with sand to spread it evenly.
- Cut the tops at 20 cm and the plants branch for two or three more harvests.
What can go wrong
Holes in the leaves are from leaf-eating caterpillars. Check in the evening and pick them off.
Sown around the same time
New to growing from seed? Read how to sow seeds and the balcony and terrace garden guide.
Questions people ask
When is amaranth sown in north India?
In the plains of north and central India, the usual sowing or planting months for amaranth are March and April, June and July.
How long does amaranth take to grow?
Usually 25 to 35 days.
Can amaranth be grown in a pot?
Yes. Any box or pot 15 to 20 cm deep.