Where to Plant a Chia Plant
Chia plants are cold-sensitive annuals native to Central America.
They grow best in warm climates, such as the southeastern U.S. orUSDA Hardiness Zones 8-11.
The seeds are ready to be harvested in about 120 days.
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Scatter the seeds over the planting area and barely cover them with soil, no thicker than 1/4 inch.
There is no need to soak the seeds before planting.
Water the area lightly and keep it moist.
The seeds germinate in 4 to 14 days.
Be generous when scattering chia seeds in the garden.
Once they sprout, thin them out to the final spacing.
This gives you plenty of tasty sprouts for eating.
Mature shia plants should be spaced 8 to 12 inches apart in rows 18 to 24 inches apart.
Transplant the seedlings outdoors after there is no more danger of frost.
Chia Plant Care Tips
After they are established, chia plants are very low-maintenance.
If you don’t want them to self-seed,deadhead the plantsbefore they drop their seeds.
Light
Chia plants need at leasteight hours of full sundaily.
Seedlings and young plants need ample water.
After the plants have fully established root systems, they are drought-tolerant and thrive in midday heat.
Allow the soil to dry between waterings to avoid root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Chia plants grow best in warm weather, with temperatures between 70F and 80F.
They survive temperatures in the low 50s but are not cold hardy.
The plants dont have stringent humidity requirements but are known to do well in high-humidity environments.
Fertilizer
Chia doesnt require fertilization when planted in rich soil.
In poor soil, incorporatecompostinto the soil before planting.
Select a terra-cotta pot with good drainage and fill it with commercial potting soil withsome added sand.
Organic pesticides such asneem oilusually work to treat pests on chia plants.
Use sterilized pruning snips or scissors to cut off the flower below the spike.
Place the flowers in a paper bag.
Shake the bag to release the seeds after one to two weeks.
Place the dry flowers in a paper bag.
When they are completely dry and brittle, crush the seed heads inside the bag to release the seeds.
Chia is also high in protein and fiber.
The seeds should sprout and be ready to eat in two to four days.
Chia varieties are being developed to produce the minty-scented purple or white flower clusters earlier in the season.
