Epazote - Key Growing Information
SOWING: Direct seed (recommended): Sow outdoors shallowly, as seeds require light to germinate, 2-3 seeds per inch, once the soil has warmed in early spring. Thin to stand 4-6" apart in rows, or clumps every 6-12", in rows that are 12-18" apart.
Transplant: Press seeds lightly, as seeds require light to germinate, into a soil mix that has been premoistened. Water-in with the same mixture. Transplant to larger cells when seedlings develop true leaves and later to outside when they are about 3-4" tall. Space plants 4-6" apart in rows that are 12-18" apart.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Grow in average to poor soil. When grown in an acidic soil, the "purpling," which is usually barely visible in the stems and leaf veins, can become more prominent.
PLANT HEIGHT: 24-36".
PLANT SPACING: 4-6".
HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.
HARVEST: Harvest leaves or whole young plants for fresh use. Harvest black seeds when ripe and dry for medicinal use.
Note: Epazote self-sows readily. May become invasive, if allowed to do so.
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dysphania ambrosioides