Amaranth Mardi Gras Parade - Renee's Garden

The lustrous clover-like blooms of Mardi Gras Parade shine like party decorations on multi-stemmed, upright 1 to 1 1/2 foot plants. These many petaled, almost iridescent globe-shaped blossoms will light up the garden at midsummer when other summer annuals begin to fade. We’ve selected a stunning blend of glowing vibrant red, rich apricot orange, and luminous carmine. Butterflies flock to their shimmery blooms that are easily dried as everlastings for bright pleasure year round. 

Seed Count: Approx. 60 / Weight: 0.3 g

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom

Frost tender

BEST TO START EARLY INDOORS

Six weeks before last expected frost date, sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant out. Feed every 2 weeks with half-strength fertilizer until seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, then transplant once weather is warm and settled after gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions.

TO START OUTDOORS

Sow seeds in a well-drained, finely textured, seed bed in full sun when weather is warm and settled. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart, cover about 1/4 inch deep, and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination. Thin or transplant seedlings 8 to 10 inches apart when large enough to handle.

GROWING NOTES

Seedlings will grow slowly at first, then begin to branch and grow vigorously by midsummer. Good drainage is essential. The bright blossoms bloom for many weeks and delight visiting butterflies. Cut when blooms are full and round but before they elongate. Enjoy flowers fresh or hang them upside down inside to air dry.