How to Grow Quinoa
Chenopodium quinoa
Quinoa is challenging to grow in the UK but possible in southern areas with a long, warm growing season. Sow after the last frost in the warmest, most sheltered spot you have — south-facing and wind-protected is ideal. Thin seedlings to 30cm apart and water to establish, after which plants are surprisingly drought-tolerant. Harvest when seed heads have dried on the plant and seeds rub off easily, then rinse thoroughly to remove the bitter saponin coating.
When to Start
Sow indoors 6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 10°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light balanced feed at sowing. Drought-tolerant once established.
- Needs a long, warm growing season. Challenging in the UK but possible in southern areas. Ornamental seed heads.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Germination temperature
- 15–25°C
Pet Safety
- Direct sow
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.5 cm |
| Mature height | 150 cm |
| Mature spread | 40 cm |
Trial data and grower guides suggest thinning plants to roughly 25–46 cm apart, with rows anywhere from 30 to 50 cm, depending on variety and equipment. A default of 30 cm between plants and 45 cm between rows works as a reasonable compromise for garden beds and small plots, with scope to tighten spacing for smaller varieties or widen for very tall ones.
Pests & Diseases
Pest Aphids
Identification: Clusters of green or black insects on growing tips and seed heads; sticky honeydew; sooty mould on leaves below colonies
- Blast off with a strong jet of water
- Spray with insecticidal soap, targeting seed heads and leaf undersides
- Encourage ladybirds and lacewings
- Spray with a contact insecticide containing pyrethrins
Pest Leaf Miners
Identification: Pale, winding tunnels or blotchy mines visible within leaves; larvae visible inside mines when held to light
- Squash larvae within mines by pressing leaves between fingers
- Remove and destroy badly affected leaves
- Cover plants with fine mesh to prevent adult flies laying eggs
- Systemic insecticides are rarely justified for this crop; cultural controls are preferred
Pest Birds
Identification: Stripped or damaged seed heads; seeds scattered on the ground; bird droppings on and around plants
- Net plants with bird netting as seed heads begin to ripen
- Use bird scarers, reflective tape, or CDs hung near plants
Disease Downy Mildew Peronospora variabilis
Symptoms: Yellow or pale patches on upper leaf surfaces with corresponding grey-purple fuzzy growth on undersides; leaves wilt and die
Treatment: Remove affected leaves promptly; improve air circulation by thinning plants; avoid overhead watering
Prevention: Space plants well for airflow; water at the base; choose resistant varieties if available; rotate crops
Disease Stem Rot
Symptoms: Dark, water-soaked lesions at the base of stems; plants wilt and collapse; white or grey fungal growth may appear at soil level
Treatment: Remove and destroy affected plants; improve drainage; avoid overwatering
Prevention: Ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; do not overcrowd plants; rotate planting positions
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Germination temperature | 15–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 9.5h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Quinoa?
- Plant Quinoa 30cm apart with 45cm between rows.
- Is Quinoa frost hardy?
- Quinoa is classified as Half Hardy.
