Organic rainbow quinoa
identification
description
Rainbow quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol
Rainbow quinoa is a carefully selected blend of yellow, orange, and red varieties that have demonstrated excellent agronomic performance on the farm. The plants are vigorous and produce long, colorful panicles that are as beautiful in the garden as they are nutritious at harvest. This diversity provides unique visual richness while maintaining remarkable nutritional quality.
A robust and versatile plant, quinoa is well-suited to northern climates and tolerates light frost , allowing for early planting in the spring. In addition to its high nutritional value, it is an interesting crop for community gardens, food self-sufficiency projects, and experimental vegetable gardens.
Type: Annual pseudo-cereal
Plant habit: Upright
Plant height: 100 to 150 cm
Quantity per pack: 400 seeds
Maturity: Approximately 100 days
Family: Amaranthaceae
Companion plants: Beans, corn, squash, sunflowers, amaranth
Incompatible plants: No known specific incompatibilities
Farming method
Rainbow quinoa can be started indoors 4 weeks before planting out or sown directly outdoors in spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. It prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil and full sun .
Space the plants about 30 to 40 cm apart to promote good air circulation and prevent lodging. Quinoa requires little maintenance once established and tolerates temperature variations well. Regular watering during the planting stage helps ensure uniform germination.
Uses and benefits
Quinoa is renowned for its exceptional nutritional value , being rich in complete proteins, minerals, and fiber. The grains can be cooked like a cereal after rinsing to remove natural saponins. The young leaves are also edible , used like spinach.
Growing rainbow quinoa means choosing a productive, resilient, and nutritious plant, while supporting a local, reproducible seed adapted to our bioregion . It's an inspiring crop that combines food self-sufficiency, beauty, and diversity.
