Homestretch Farming

  Written by Peter Otieno                 Amaranth,we call it mchicha or ododo, is an indigenous vegetable grown for its leaves and seeds. When cooked together with greens such as collards, African nightshade or spider plant, it adds a sweet tender taste. Amaranth exists in varieties including those eaten by goats and poultry but on this post we will consider the green variety which is great for family consumption and commercial use. It has a large oval shaped green leaf with a tall thick stem. During the first weeks of germination leaves appear reddish but later takes their normal green color. The leaves and stems can increase in size depending on ground fertility. This green variety produces white seeds that turn yellow after drying which are later grounded into flour. Seeding On a well tilled farm or garden, sow amaranth seeds in holes or furrows of 60cm apart. Add  well decomposed farmyard manure then cover with little soil. As you sow your seeds, consider a moist, well drained gro