How to Grow Quinoa

A cool-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Quinoa is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Quinoa is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the quinoa page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Cherry Vanilla, Colorful, adaptable (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 30 cm (12 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 1 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 4 L per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Birds and Aphids. In humid regions, Downy mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Quinoa is usually ready to harvest in about 4 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant quinoa where you garden.

See also: Quinoa in the plant library →

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