Planting and Growing Guide for Huauzontle (Chenopodium nuttalliae)
Description
Huauzontle is an edible plant, native to Mexico, that is related to other native traditional food plants such as amaranth, quinoa and epazote. Huauzontle grows upright branches green leafy stems, tinted with red. Huauzontle is very resistant to cold and dry climates, and grows even in poor soil. Despite this it has high nutritional values as a staple grain crop. In temperate zone areas sow after the last frost when soils temperatures are warmer. In sub-tropical and areas with mild winters it can be grown all year.
Plant in well-prepared soil that has some organic matter. Boost the fertility with rich compost, manure or general purpose garden fertilizer. Huauzontle seed is very small and has to be planted very close to the soil surface. Broadcast a pinch of the seed in a the prepared area, lightly rake the area and water it in. After 7-10 weeks the leaves can be harvested and used as a vegetable.
Huauzontle leaves and young tips taste like broccoli. They can be used in salads, or cooked in butter with onion and garlic like spinach. Steam the leaves for 1-3 minutes to remove oxalates and saponins before adding to salads. Seed heads can be dipped in batter and fried. The seeds can be saved and made into flour.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Start seed indoors in seed trays about 3-4 weeks prior to last frost. Transplant when soil temperature has warmed. Sow seed directly in garden beds after the last frost. So seed 1 cm deep (1/2 inches).
Space between plants: Space plants about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart. Space rows 40-50 cm (15-30 inches) apart
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 7-10 weeks. Young leaves can be picked as the plants grow
Hints:
- Does best in rich well-drained open soils
- Water regularly and evenly, especially in summer
- Frost tender and so delay planting and harvest in early winter
- Does best in full sun or partial shade
- Prepare the soil by mixing in well-rotted compost or manure
- Feed regularly and keep the plants growing strongly without growth checks, to improve the size, flavor and texture of the leaves
- Harvest continually. Keep the seeds for planting next year
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!