8 4 THE BOOK OF RARER VEGETABLES 



also different coloured leaves. Most of them seed freely 

 and are vigorous growers. The plant making a rapid 

 growth, 4 to 6 feet, and being an annual, it will be seen 

 that much space is required to grow it properly ; and 

 it is well to give a good holding soil, and a warm, well- 

 drained one in addition, as though the plant will grow in 

 almost any position, it will not ripenits seed in thiscountry, 

 unless grown as advised. The best results I have seen 

 have been from plants sown under glass in March and 

 planted but in May or June ; that is, given similar culture 

 to our vegetable Marrow. Another plan is to sow in 

 small pots and place in a cold frame, and to plant out 

 when a few inches high. Seed may be sown in the 

 open in May in drills 2 to 3 feet apart and the plants 

 when large enough thinned to half that distance in the 

 row. The plant raised under glass gives a much better 

 return. The points of the shoots should be taken out 

 when in full growth to induce side shoots to form. The 

 leaves may be used as Spinach, and there should be ample 

 supplies of moisture given in dry, hot weather. The 

 plant makes its growth from June to September, and at 

 the last-named month it perfects its seeds. These are 

 then harvested, dried, and stored in a cool place. When 

 the plant is only grown for its leaves, less space may be 

 given. 



To COOK QUINOA 



The leaves are cooked as Spinach. The seeds, having 

 been boiled, may be used in soups and cakes as flavourers. 



