When to plant Amaranth in Arcadia, FL
Plant Amaranth in Arcadia from February 1 to February 22 in spring. Arcadia sits in USDA Zone 9b, with last frost around February 1 and first frost on December 20.
When to Plant Amaranth in Arcadia, FL
Amaranth is an ancient grain crop with edible leaves and seeds, rich in protein and micronutrients. It thrives in warm conditions and is drought-tolerant once established.
Arcadia, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 1 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 322 days.
At an elevation of 214 feet, DeSoto County receives approximately 53.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Amaranth may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Amaranth will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Amaranth root diseases.
Arcadia Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-6
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Amaranth
Amaranth needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Amaranth Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 8.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in DeSoto County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Amaranth Planting Timeline — Arcadia, FL
Amaranth Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | December 21 | Dec 21 – Jan 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 8 | Feb 8 – Feb 22 |
| Direct Sow | February 1 | Feb 1 – Feb 22 |
| Harvest | May 10 | May 10 – Jun 28 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | Start Indoors |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
322 days in DeSoto County
Growing Tips for Arcadia
Direct sow after last frost when soil is warm. Thin seedlings to 18 inches apart. Harvest leaves when young and tender; harvest seeds when flower heads begin to dry.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Amaranth in Other Locations
When should I plant Amaranth in Arcadia, FL?
In Arcadia, FL, plant Amaranth after the last frost (around February 1) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Arcadia, FL for Amaranth?
Arcadia sits in USDA Zone 9b. Amaranth grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Amaranth grow in Arcadia's climate?
Yes — Amaranth grows well in Arcadia's temperate climate. Arcadia averages a 323-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 1 and first frost around December 20.
Your DeSoto County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeSoto County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.