Planting Callaloo Amaranth

Wait until the threat of frost passes in spring and the soil has warmed to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Amaranth is a warm-season plant that needs lots of sunshine to prosper. Site the callaloo bed where it basks in at least eight hours of uninterrupted sunlight daily. Choose a soil that drains well, as soggy soils lead to root rot.

Scatter 2 to 3 inches of fine-particle organic matter, such as compost or rotted manure, atop the soil. This organic matter, once incorporated into the planting bed, improves soil fertility, texture and drainage.

Cultivate the garden soil to a depth of at least 6 inches with a shovel. Turn the soil and break apart clumps with the back of the shovel. Alternatively, use a rotary tiller. Pulverize the soil into fine particles, because callaloo amaranth seeds are tiny and need good soil contact to germinate and develop into healthy seedlings. Use your hands -- gloves optional -- to work the soil into a smooth, fine-grained surface.

Rake the area smooth, and allow the soil to naturally settle for two to seven days before you plant. Remove any weeds that sprout in the bed before you sow the callaloo amaranth seeds.

Create a 1/4-inch-deep furrow with a hoe. Remove any rocks or soil clumps from the furrow, so its bottom is smooth and lined with fine-particle soil. Tamp the base of the furrow with the back of the hoe's blade to create a firm, smooth planting surface.

Scatter the callaloo amaranth seeds into the furrow, trying to space seeds every 1 to 2 inches. Once seedlings sprout, plants may be thinned out as needed.

Scatter soil over the seeds in the furrow with your hands or the hoe. Layer no more than 1/4 inch of soil over the amaranth seeds. Remove any soil clumps, so only fine particles cover the seeds.

Tamp the soil down over the amaranth seeds. Use the back of the hoe blade to bring the soil into direct contact with the seeds. Do not press down so firmly that you create a tight, hard soil surface; press just enough to remove air pockets.

Water the furrow with a sprinkling can. Gently moisten the soil over the seeds so you don't erode or wash the soil and seeds from the bed. Add enough water to wet the soil to a depth of 1 to 2 inches.

Monitor the soil over the next five to 10 days until seedlings emerge. Water the soil as needed to keep it slightly moist, supplementing any rain as needed. Avoid too much water, as this encourages fungus and mold. Soil also must not become too dry, as this prevents germination.