How to Grow Quinoa

Updated June 2026

A cool-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Quinoa is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Quinoa is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the quinoa page for exact timing.

Varieties

Cherry Vanilla, Colorful, adaptable (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 12 in between plants.
Sowing: sow about 0.5 in deep.
Water: roughly 1.1 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Birds and Aphids. In humid regions, Downy mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Quinoa is usually ready to harvest in about 4 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant quinoa where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →