84 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 
han)e been from plants sown under glass in March and 
planted out 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. 
