Shchiritsa (Amaranhtus) was grown by the Incas and Aztecs along with corn, potatoes and beans. The seeds of this plant, which are also suitable for flour production, can be placed on a par with corn and cotton in value.
From ban to heyday
Shchiritsa or amaranth is one of the first agricultural crops grown by humans.
When, while in Warsaw, I asked Dr. Hazem Kalai what wonderful thing he had that would be interesting to tell the readers of Ukraine, and even so as to give them the idea of a new business, he answered without hesitation:
- Amaranthus.
- Shchiritsa? What's so wonderful about it?
And Professor Hazem Kalai spoke.
The history of this plant is intricate: agarica as a crop was banned in the sixteenth century. Considering the fact that the ancients also used amaranth in magical and pagan cults, the cultivation of this plant, as a symbol of paganism, was prohibited by Spanish monks during the conquest of Central and South America by the conquistadors. At the same time, agarica also entered the territory of the old continent, where it first quickly spread as a weed, and only centuries later it became a cultivated plant. A new revival of ashiritsa as a field crop began in the 70s of the last century, mainly due to the valuable nutritional properties of the plant. Amaranth is now widely used in agriculture, food and pharmaceutical industries. Amaranth fields can be found in almost every corner of the world - in South America, South-East Asia: India, Nepal, Himalayas, China, Ceylon and Africa: Mozambique, Uganda and Nigeria. In addition, ashiritsa is grown in the vicinity of St. Petersburg, in Kazakhstan and in Western Europe– in Germany, Slovakia and Poland. The cultivation of amaranth in Poland began 10 years ago, after a visit by Professor Emil Nalborczyk from Warsaw Agrarian University Mapuche Indian villages in Chile. From there he brought amaranth seeds.
Character and habits: botanical characteristics and environmental requirements
The species Shchiritsa (Amaranhtus) belongs to the family Shchiritsa (Amaranthaceae), order Caryophyllales and includes about 60 species, of which only a few are suitable for cultivation as cultivated plants. Most species of this family are weeds; their seeds and leaves are unsuitable for food (for example, the well-known amaranthus retroflexus). Most species of this genus belong to annual plants, but there are also some perennial species of acorns. The height of the agaric varies, depending on the type, from 0.3 to 3 meters.
Species from the Schiritsev family (Amaranthaceae) are characterized by different shapes. The stems can be straight, curved, branched, but always without lateral shoots. Plants may be covered with fine hairs, bristles, long shoots, or remain bare. The color of the stems and leaves, depending on the species, can be green, red, purple, or one plant can have a combination of colors different colors. The inflorescence of aphidum consists of small “balls” of flowers in the axils of the leaves, and is spike-shaped. The color of the inflorescence is also varied - it can be golden, green, red, pink, purple and brown. The seeds are small, from 0.9 to 1.7 mm long, but in cultivated varieties they are larger - from 1.5 to 2.14 mm. The color of the seeds varies depending on the type and subspecies of amaranth, which serves as the main identifying feature for distinguishing cultivated varieties of amaranth. Although in botanical classification the color of seeds is not used for determination. Amaranth can be grown at different altitudes, even at an altitude of 3000 m. As for the type of soil, amaranth is a picky plant that can grow in sandy and clay soils, with a pH level above 8.5 or slightly acidic (pH 6.0). This crop tolerates a lack of moisture and a high content of metals in the soil. The optimal temperature for the growth and development of amaranth is + 26- +28. °C, development stops at + 7 °C. The growing season of amaranth usually lasts 90-130 days, but can be as long as 160 days.
A.Retroflexus (breadth thrown back)
A.Hybridus (hybrid bread)
A.Lividus (bluish width)
How they do it in Mexico and Poland
The soil for sowing shiritsa should be well prepared, crumbly, warm and slightly moist. It is recommended to fertilize in the same way as corn. According to farmers from Mexico, they use the following fertilizers for acorns:
Nitrogen – 90-100 kg/ha (split application – the first before sowing, the second during intensive crop growth).
Phosphorus - from 60 to 70 kg/ha.
Potassium – 60 – 70 kg/ha.
It is best to sow amaranth when the soil warms up at a depth of 5 cm to a temperature of 10-13°C, usually in the second ten days of May. You can sow by hand or using a row seeder. If you are using a seeder, acorn seeds should be mixed with sand or semolina to ensure even placement of the seeds and maintain the seeding rate. The seeding rate can be from 0.5 to 5.0 kg/ha, sowing can be done with row spacing of 20-30 cm or 50-70 cm, at a depth of 1 cm. During the growing season, it is important to carry out manual or mechanical weeding to form optimal density standing. Amaranth can be harvested after the first frost in October or November, since in low temperatures (below -5 °C) the plants begin to dry out. You can use regular grain harvesters. The yield of amaranth largely depends on the variety and the area where it is grown. For traditional varieties grown in Mexico, the yield is 0.8-1.5 tons of seeds/ha, in Ethiopia - up to 6 tons of seeds/ha. The price for the obtained acorn seeds is, as a rule, at least 3 times higher than the purchase price of wheat.
Cultivation care. Easy and inexpensive
Insects that would seriously damage acorns are not yet known. Of the diseases that affect amaranth, the most harmful are leaf spots (dominant - Phoma longissima), root rot caused by growing on wet soils, and also white rust (pathogen Albugo bliti).
Why is it needed, this amaranth?
Recently, amaranth seeds are increasingly called the “grain of the 21st century”, since its seeds are more valuable in terms of nutritional content than wheat. Amaranth seeds are characterized by a high content of protein, lysine and other amino acids. The value of ashiritsa proteins exceeds biological value milk proteins. The seeds also contain large amounts of iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium, which are one of the important elements in the diet of pregnant women and diets in the treatment of diseases of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. The seeds are characterized by a high content of vitamins B and A, E and C, their content is twice that of fiber and oat bran. Also, acorn seeds contain the enzyme tecotrienol, which is an inhibitor of cholesterol synthesis, which makes this crop promising for the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The seeds also contain the substance squalene (about 5-8% of the total seed oil content), which stops the aging process and is used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
The green mass (leaves, stems) of all cultivated amaranth species can be used as animal feed; This food helps improve the quality of meat and reduce the percentage of obesity in animals. Under favorable growing conditions, one hectare can produce up to 100 tons of green mass. 100 tons of green mass of amaranth is 5 tons of pure protein, which in its own way nutritional value higher than soy protein.
According to a 2007 study by Bednarczyk and Pasko, amaranth seeds or oil can be used to treat people suffering from hypertension and coronary disease hearts. The reason is that amaranth contains three components that regulate cholesterol biosynthesis: squalene, fiber (fibrous substances) and substances that inhibit trypsin synthesis.
Squalene is one of the main metabolites (substances) involved in the biosynthesis of cholesterol in the liver; It has been proven that it suppresses the activity of key enzymes in cholesterogenesis, that is, it slows down the process of cholesterol formation. Another hypothesis is that squalene inhibits the intestinal absorption of fatty acids and cholesterol. Experimental studies On rats, they showed that squalene increases the activity of the enzyme cholesterol acetyltransferase, which leads to the accumulation of esters in the liver and prevents the release of free cholesterol into the blood. Squalene also has antioxidant properties.
Fibrous substances are contained in large quantities in seeds and leaves different types amaranth. These substances promote the binding and absorption of fatty acids and cholesterol into gastrointestinal tract, thereby preventing them from entering the blood. In addition, during the transformation of fibrous substances in the stomach under the influence of microflora, acids are formed (acetic, propionic, butyric), which inhibit the biosynthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
Trypsin inhibitors stimulate the secretion (production and release) of the enzyme cholecystokinin, which increases the flow of bile into the duodenum. This accelerates the decomposition of cholesterol and bile acids in the liver. And, as a result, a decrease in cholesterol levels in the blood.
A diet using amaranth oil helps reduce the frequency of headaches and fatigue during physical activity. This oil also helps normalize blood pressure, in people with high blood pressure it decreases by 20%. If you adhere to a strict diet based on amaranth oil, then body weight is reduced by an average of 300 g per day. All these exceptional qualities of the plant are well known to specialists in the pharmaceutical and cosmetology industries, which creates a steady demand for raw materials and semi-finished products from amaranth.
A.Cruentus (scarlet amaranth)
A.Caudatus (caudate amaranth)
A.Deflexus (declined width)
The importance of amaranth in environmental protection
Shchiritsa (amaranth) belongs to plants with the C-4 type of photosynthesis, that is, to those plants that intensively and in large quantities bind carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is important in conditions global warming. In addition, growing amaranth can prevent wind erosion of the soil; In addition, agarica cleanses the soil of heavy metal ions. These data were confirmed by studies conducted in Poland, at the Technical University in Kosice. It was found that this plant has the ability to adapt to environmental conditions and grow and develop normally in conditions of severe soil contamination with heavy metals. Heavy metal and nitrate ions accumulate in the root system of amaranth, which is not used industrially.
In addition, the experimental results show that most types of amaranth can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuel. To do this, the amaranth crop is harvested using a combine used for harvesting flax. The collected plants are dried, pressed into cubes or briquettes, which are directly used to produce biofuel. The energy intensity of amaranth is 14 MJ/kg at a humidity of 17%.
Another environmental aspect associated with acorn grass; since shiritsa contains significant amount squalene, which is widely used in pharmaceuticals, and until recently it was obtained only from sharks and whales, now amaranth can be safely used as a source of this valuable material, preserving the biodiversity of the oceans.
Sowing amaranth with a seeder SPZ-1.5
View of the field after sowing the width
Shirita shoots on the 3rd week after sowing
Amaranth plants on the 7th week after sowing
Beginning of flowering
Amaranth in full bloom
Waxy ripeness of amaranth seeds
Inflorescences with ripe seeds
Harvesting amaranth
Amaranth products on the market
Today on the European market you can find many products made from acorn grass, these include food products, supplements, as well as various cosmetics. Food products – flour, soups and fried acorn seeds. Amaranth oil is used as an additive to yoghurts, kefir, ice cream, salads and desserts. Amaranth oil is also used in cosmetology as a means to smooth out wrinkles. Internal use of ashiritsa oil is also indicated for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and to strengthen the immune system.
For lunch and dessert
Amaranth and leek soup
Ingredients: amaranth leaves or roasted seeds, herbal tea, leeks, olive oil, seasonings: salt, pepper, nutmeg, chopped green onions.
Boil amaranth leaves over low heat for 10 minutes in broth with vegetables and leeks, then fry in amaranth oil. Add to the boiling soup and simmer together for a few minutes. When ready, add spices and finely chopped green onions.
Amaranth with vegetables
Ingredients: amaranth seeds, olive oil, carrots, leeks, celery, parsley, peppers, potatoes. Spices: salt, pepper, thyme.
Boil amaranth seeds for about 15 minutes. Fry vegetables in olive oil, add water and simmer over low heat. Then add the boiled seeds and simmer over low heat, add spices, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Dessert with amaranth and nuts
Ingredients: honey or corn syrup, butter or margarine, chopped walnuts or peanuts, amaranth seeds.
Heat honey or syrup, butter or margarine, mix, add nuts and amaranth seeds. Mix well, then pour into a thin layer in a baking dish and, after cooling, cut into small pieces.
Information and Ukrainian amaranth experiments
The use of amaranth as a silage crop ensures an increase in protein production in silage per unit land area by 16-17%, and lysine - by 2.4 times. In amaranth silage, compared to corn silage, the protein content (in terms of 1 feed unit) increases 1.7 times, reaching a level of 90-100 g when using mixed crops of amaranth and corn, which is the zootechnical norm for most farm animals. Using amaranth silage instead of corn silage in the diet of young cattle cattle helps increase average daily weight gain by 16%, and in pig diets, amaranth silage can replace up to 20% of concentrated feed. All this gives grounds to assert that the widespread use of such a valuable forage crop for ensiling in the forest-steppe zone of Ukraine will help solve the feed problem and increase livestock production.
Amaranth may also be of interest for agricultural production because it requires, compared to other crops, a small amount of water to create a unit of organic matter: approximately half as much as wheat and barley, and 2.5-3 times less than beans. alfalfa, sunflower. Compared to corn, labor costs for ensiling amaranth are half as much, the protein content is twice as high, although the yield of amaranth is almost the same as that of corn. Labor costs and operating costs when growing amaranth, both for green fodder, grain, and especially for silage, are lower than when growing corn.
ARGO Consumer Society
Amaranth has long been successfully produced in the Nikolaev region (“Amarant of Ukraine”, http://www.amarant-ukr.com.ua/), “Kharkovsky-1, medicinal” is cultivated here - the biomass yield is 3 times higher than corn and gives more than 200 tons of biomass with grain. In some experimental areas, a result of 300 tons was achieved. Amaranth has amazing biological qualities:
- Amaranth has two types of roots: fibrous, superficial, which uses moisture from upper layers soil, and the core, which extracts moisture for the plant from a depth of 7 meters, especially during critical dry periods.
- At high temperatures the stomata in the leaves/respiratory tract/ close and do not allow moisture to evaporate. This is the strength of this plant, that it can withstand drought and does not die.
- This is perhaps the highest protein plant, surpassing soybean, buckwheat, cow's milk, not to mention cereals. Of the 20 types of all amino acids existing in nature, amaranth includes 18.
Kherson Institute of Agriculture of the Southern Region
Amaranth “Ultra” is an annual spring grain crop of the Amaranthaceae family. The tap root penetrates to a depth of 7 m.
The plant reaches a height of 1.6 -1.7 m. The stem is powerful, erect, irregularly rounded. The leaves are arranged alternately, they are whole, at the base elongated into a stem, oval and lanceolate in shape.
The tops of the leaves are notched and slightly pointed. The inflorescence is a complex, branched, golden-colored, straight shoot 35–45 cm long.
The flowers are small.
The pollination system is mixed.
Amaranth seed is similar to cereal seed.
After the amaranth harvest, carrion does not germinate in the field. The plant tolerates drought well, but dies at temperatures of zero degrees.
Amaranth sowing begins after May 15th. For sowing, experts recommend using a “Maple” seeder.
The consumption rate of the machine is 0.5 kg, while the use of other seeders gives a consumption rate of 1 kg.
For every 500 plants of the crop, there is 1 two-meter mutant, which must be destroyed before flowering.
Amaranth varieties Ultra, Sam and Lera differ in yield and growing season.
Prof. Hazem Kalai, Dr. Carolina Bosa, Asp. Agnieszka Grochowska
Hazem M. Kalaji, Karolina Bosa, Agnieszka Grochowska
Department of Plant Physiology, Warsaw Agricultural University, Poland
And finally - from the editor
It should be noted that the prices for amaranth products and amaranth grain are usually called fantastic... So (data from four years ago) a liter of pharmaceutical amaranth oil in Europe cost more than 700 euros, a liter of food - 12 euros, a kilogram of flour - 8.6 euros, and so on, but, of course, any agro-industrialist, before growing a crop, must take care of future sales. Prices, channels, duties, etc. today are probably different from last year. Unless, of course, you have no idea to grow a fodder crop for your own livestock farming... Nevertheless, amaranth is a very interesting crop, especially for small farms that need differentiation in the market and the ability to survive next to huge holdings, doing what holdings do not do will become.
Schiritsa upturned is a weed that everyone has probably encountered. It grows quite quickly, which creates a lot of trouble for the summer resident. But is this weed so useless? You will learn the answer from our article today.
The plant has several names: amaranth, velvet, rubella, beetroot. It appeared in South America, where grass was grown as a grain crop. However, the plant was not popular in all countries. For example, in Spain, the upturned acorn was considered a plant of evil spirits, so its cultivation was prohibited.
Schiritsa upturned - weed
This herbaceous plant is an annual. Field grass has a rather thick stem, growing up to 0.9 cm in height. Characteristic feature The weed is considered to have burgundy-purple colored leaves that are pointed at the end.
In total, there are about 100 varieties of herbaceous plants, most of which are classified as weeds. However, some species bred through selection are decorative. The most popular varieties of shiritsa are:
- ordinary;
- thrown back;
- strong;
- white amaranth;
- shuntuk.
The herbaceous plant is distributed almost throughout the globe, except in regions with low temperatures. Most often, acorn grass can be found in the tropics of America, Australia, Asia, and Africa.
Video “What are the benefits of amaranth”
From this video you will learn about the beneficial properties of amaranth.
Chemical composition and medicinal properties
Shchiritsa upturned has a rather rich chemical composition:
- carbohydrates;
- phytosterols;
- amino acids;
- potassium;
- magnesium.
The leaves of the plant contain more protein than wheat. That is why the culture is especially valued in China, used along with seafood.
The rich chemical composition of the plant determines the presence of beneficial properties:
- anti-inflammatory;
- diuretics;
- laxatives.
Velvet is indispensable in case of:
- stomatitis;
- oncological diseases;
- gastritis;
- cystitis;
- diabetes mellitus;
- atherosclerosis;
- anemia.
Recipes based on shiritsa
Considering the beneficial properties that agarica has, the weed can be considered a medicinal herb. That's why it's popular in folk medicine.
Shchiritsa is popular in folk medicine Juice
Shchiritsa is considered one of the most effective ways combating inflammation of the oral cavity. The grass juice must be combined with drinking water in a ratio of 1:5. Rinse the mouth with the solution twice a day.
The juice can also be taken orally. To do this, it is mixed with sour cream in a 1:1 ratio. Use 3 times a day, 1 tbsp. l. after eating. The product is effective for diabetes mellitus, discomfort in the liver area, gastritis.
Root decoction
A decoction of the dried roots of the herb is effective as an anthelmintic. In addition, such a drink will have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular and genitourinary systems and improve the general condition of the body.
15-20 g of crushed velvet roots must be poured into 250 g of boiling water and left for 40 minutes in a water bath. After the decoction has cooled, it should be taken 3 tbsp. l. twice a day.
Infusion of leaves
Infusions based on dry marigold leaves can normalize blood glucose levels and effectively fight diabetes.
To prepare the infusion, you need to pour 20 g of leaves into 300 g of boiling water and leave for 20 minutes in a water bath. When the drink has cooled, it should be strained. It is recommended to use the infusion twice a day, 2-3 tbsp. l.
Alcohol tincture
In case of problems with the genitourinary system, alcohol tincture of agaric will be effective. You need to take the flowers and leaves of the grass and pour vodka over them. The mass should be infused for about 2-3 weeks in a cool, dark place. The product is taken 1 tsp. before meals.
Shchiritsa oil
Amaranth oil is rich in vitamins, the main one of which is vitamin D. Thus, a product prepared using the oil of this herb has beneficial influence on skin, nails and hair. A positive effect is observed in the condition of blood vessels and the functioning of the endocrine system. The product also promotes the active removal of toxins and cholesterol from the body.
Take a teaspoon of oil twice a day before meals.
Amaranth oil is rich in vitamins Bath decoction
In case of dermatological diseases, an excellent solution would be a decoction for baths with velvet leaves and inflorescences. 0.5 kg of raw materials must be filled with 2.5 liters of boiling water. Boil the mixture over low heat, cool slightly and pour into the bath. This procedure should not last longer than half an hour.
Rejuvenating Blend
A mixture containing amaranth, St. John's wort, chamomile and Birch buds It will be an excellent way to get rid of toxins. 20 g of the composition must be poured into 0.5 liters of boiling water. After the mixture has infused for 2-3 hours, it should be strained. Use the product with a small amount of honey twice a day.
Harm of the weed to humans and agriculture
In addition to its beneficial properties as a medicinal herb, acorn grass causes significant harm to agricultural crops and humans. Main negative factors are:
Considering the degree of damage that amaranth can cause to a summer cottage, gardeners are often interested in methods for destroying weeds.
Mechanical removal
This is the most common method of struggle. A gardener digs up the beds, collecting weeds by hand. It is important to choose the grass along with the roots. It is recommended to do this procedure until the marigold blooms.
Biological methods
The method is to mulch the soil. The material used is often cardboard, roofing felt or black plastic film. Light does not penetrate under the mulch, and therefore weed seeds do not germinate.
Chemical methods
This method is applicable only in those areas of the garden where crops do not grow. These chemicals are considered the most effective for garden treatment.
Among the many weeds, we can mention acorn grass, which is quite common in our area. How does she look? What do you need to get rid of weeds in your garden? Despite its medicinal properties, it has no place in the garden.
Description of the weed
Shchiritsa, its other name is amaranth. Compared to pulling out other weeds such as dandelions and quinoa, upturned acorn grass is quite difficult to remove. This herb was brought to China, India, and Europe from South America more than a century ago. IN natural conditions the grass was torn and eaten by the aborigines. The grass is also called “Inca bread” because its small seeds were ground and used as flour. In Spain the flower was associated with evil spirits, so the plants were not planted in this country.
In Asia, agaricum is placed in salads, and the herb is used as a seasoning for meat. In Greece, olive oil and lemon juice are poured onto the grass and agaricula is added as a side dish to fish.
The note! Young acorn leaves can be added to salads, they contain a lot of iron, ascorbic acid and carotene.
Infusions from the acorn herb are drunk for diarrhea, constipation, and diseases of the stomach and intestines. To prepare, collect the grass and chop it finely. Add 1-3 tbsp. spoons of herbs into a glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, then filter. The drink intake is divided into 3 parts, the infusion is drunk three times a day before meals.
For skin diseases, the prepared dried acorn is finely chopped, 400 g of herb is poured into 2 liters of boiling water in a saucepan. Then cook for 15 minutes. Then leave it for half an hour and pour it into the bath. Baths are taken three times a week. Shchiritsa upturned grows for only 1 year, the stems can be up to 1 m in height. Shchiritsa, in the photo, the plant has a straight stem, it has slight pubescence, and also a long red rhizome in the form of a rod, going to a depth of more than 2 m.
The acorn weed tolerates drought well, since the root can absorb moisture from great depths. As the photo shows, acorn grass has large diamond-shaped leaves. In the photo, the acorn leaves have greyish-green leaves on the outside, and are reddish on the bottom. The grass has petioles and veins with reddish stripes. It has black shiny seeds up to 1 mm in diameter; they germinate in early spring at a temperature of 5 degrees.
The note! The buds bloom in June and until October. One plant can have both female and male red small flowers. They are collected in long inflorescences in the form of panicles.
The fruits are in the form of an egg-shaped capsule. They are grayish-green and contain black seeds. One plant can produce up to 1.7 million seeds. The number of seeds depends on the light; without sunlight, the plant produces much fewer seeds.
Control measures
With a favorable summer, up to 1 thousand acorn stems grow per 1 m². The culture withstands frost and drought well. Grass grows on any land.
Shchiritsa, how to get rid of weed? Control measures can be:
- Mechanical.
- Chemical.
- Biological.
Mechanical tearing
This is the most commonly used method of grass removal. First, in the fall and spring, they dig deep into the ground, and then pull out the stems along with the rhizomes.
The grass cannot be allowed to bloom, so it is pulled out as often as possible during the season. You can dig the soil not with a shovel, but with a pitchfork, then you will remove the acorn roots intact, do not cut them into small pieces, otherwise new shoots will sprout on those pieces of roots that remain in the soil. Or you can use a cultivator, walk-behind tractor, or tractor.
Biological method
In order for the common acorn to grow, it needs good lighting. So if it's dark for a long time, then this can destroy shoots and roots.
To darken, you can add mulch, for example, cardboard, roofing felt, boards, black film. If you mulch the space where the ashes grew with a material that does not allow Sun rays, then the seeds will not germinate. In addition, it will be quite hot under such material, so the acorn sprouts will begin to burn out. But this method will require a fair amount of patience, since the plants may not die in one growing season. Another disadvantage of this method is that if soil accumulates on the surface of the covering material, acorn seeds may fall into it.
But the covering material should be chosen carefully, since under a dark film the soil will become very hot, and roofing material can release harmful resins.
Note! Instead of these materials, you can use organic mulch, spreading it in a layer of 5-10 cm. This is tree bark, pine and spruce branches, sawdust.
But you need to remember that fresh sawdust oxidizes the soil. And also they do not saturate the earth nutrients, and pull them out. Therefore, sawdust is mixed with fertilizers or added to a compost heap for 1-2 years, and only then used. During this time, bacteria appear on the sawdust, saturating them with useful substances.
It is highly recommended to mulch the beds with needles from pine trees or fir trees in the spring. If you place it near strawberries, it will protect the berries from gray rot, and they will remain clean after rainstorms. But pine needles also acidify the soil, so ash is added to the soil, which, on the contrary, reduces acidity.
If you decide to add bark, it should be chopped into pieces 1-5 cm in size. The bark is perfect as a mulching material for trees and shrubs.
Benefits of mulch:
- with it the area becomes more beautiful and tidy;
- it suppresses the growth of acorn grass, its seeds do not spread throughout the area;
- the soil is protected from compaction, erosion and erosion by rainfall;
- it protects the soil from excessive water loss and moisture evaporation;
- In winter, mulch retains heat in the ground, so plants planted in spring grow faster;
- berries and vegetables do not fall directly to the ground, so they do not rot;
- it protects the soil from the appearance of slugs and snails;
- Organic mulch rots and then enriches the soil; it activates the activity of worms.
Depletion of ashes
This can be done if you have a small area. Constantly cut off the upturned acorn weed, that is, the stems that rise above the ground. Since the stems and roots of a crop are interdependent, if the stems die, the roots may also die. If you do this very often, the agaric will die.
Sowing green manure and herbs
This method is used near tree trunks and between bushes. Grass is sown in these spaces. You can sow the area around the vegetable plantings with marigolds and marigolds, as they not only prevent the acorn grass from growing, but also repel pests from vegetable crops.
And it is better to sow the perennial aquilegia in the flower bed. You can sow green manure - rye, mustard. When the plants sprout, they are covered with a dark film and left until spring. Then the grass will rot under the film and serve as fertilizer, and besides, the agaric will not be able to sprout.
Chemical method
Siberian weed, how to fight it with chemicals? Herbicides can only be used on acorn grass growing near fences, on paths in the garden, and also where there are no plantings.
Herbicides used:
- Tornado;
- Hurricane;
- Roundup;
- Glyphos;
- Lapis lazuli and others.
But when using, remember that herbicides are toxic; they cause poison to accumulate in the soil and plants.
Prevention measures
Don't forget about preventive measures. When placing mulch under plants, do not use dry grass with seeds. Do not add fresh manure when fertilizing the soil, as acorn seeds can sprout even after a cow’s stomach, and fresh manure can also be affected by helminths.
When you want to make a compost pile, do not put mature grass with seeds there, but put grass that has not yet begun to bloom. After collecting fruits and vegetables, sow the free spaces with green manure. Cut small acorn plants with flat cutters.
The upturned acorn is popularly considered a weed, but not everyone knows that it also has a number of medicinal properties which have been used since ancient times in the treatment of certain diseases. Mainly, acorn recursus is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and as a hemostatic agent.
Amaranth upturned is an annual plant, growing up to 0.9 m. The rhizome of amaranth is pinkish in color. You can recognize the aphid by its flowers - they are small and yellowish-green in color.
Shchiritsa cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.
Seen in all areas. The amaranth family includes 4 more species that are found throughout the country. It grows in vegetable gardens and fields, near roads. Considered a weed.
Edible parts: leaves; seeds.
Culinary uses of shiritsa:
Young leaves- raw or cooked like spinach. They have a mild flavor and are often mixed with stronger flavored leaves. Amaranth is rich in iron and is also a good source of vitamins A and C.
Seeds- raw or cooked. They were ground into powder and used as a grain substitute, and some also added it to salads. The seeds are very small, about 1 mm in diameter, but are easy to collect and very nutritious. The taste will improve significantly if the seeds are roasted before grinding. They are often added to cornmeal. The seeds can be cooked whole and become jelly-like, so some of the seeds will pass right through digestive system without assimilating.
Applications of Amaranth
The plant is used in traditional medicine as a hemostatic agent for certain pulmonary, intestinal, hemorrhoidal and uterine bleeding. Sometimes it is recommended to take aqueous infusions of medicinal herbs for diarrhea, intestinal pain or constipation.
How to use shiritsa
Tart tea made from leaves as an astringent. It is used in the treatment of heavy menstruation, intestinal bleeding, etc. The infusion is used to treat hoarseness.
Grind upturned acorn grass, add 1 to 3 tbsp. l. into a full glass of boiling water, leave for about an hour, then strain. Take 3 times during the day, before meals (divide the resulting composition into 3 equal parts).
1 tbsp. add dry crushed leaves to a glass of water, then cook for 2-3 minutes, then leave for 1 hour, and be sure to strain. Take half a glass 3-4 times a day, before meals.
Other uses
Yellow and red dyes are obtained from the whole plant. Like many other Amaranthus species, this plant can be harmful and even fatal when fed to cattle and pigs in large quantities. However, when supplied in moderation, it is considered an exceptionally nutritious feed.
Photo of upturned acorn and how to fight it?
This plant is considered a weed, so it is found extremely often throughout the territory. Not everyone knows that the amaranth family amaranth can be used in folk medicine, and they want to get rid of the annoying weed plant as quickly as possible.
There are some ways:
- Thorough cleaning of seed material.
- Use of herbicides.
- Mow the grass before flowering.
You can always choose the option that you like - using it in folk medicine or destroying acorns as a weed. You should also always consult your doctor about intake and dosage. Be healthy!
Since ancient times, a plant called “amaranth” was grown by the Aztecs and Incas for rituals with sacrifice. The Spaniards, the conquistadors who arrived to conquer the New World, decided to suppress pagan rituals. Calling the amaranth flower “the devil’s plant,” they destroyed it everywhere. ancient culture. Let's talk in more detail about this wonderful plant, which the Spaniards could not eradicate.
Amaranth grass (amaranth, cat's tail, velvet, cockscombs) is a crop from the Amaranthaceae family. The stem of the plant is branched or simple. The leaves of the amaranth are egg or diamond shaped. Purple-red flowers are collected in bunches, and the fruit in the form of a box is filled with a huge supply of grains. Maximum amount seeds reaches half a million.
Famous plants from the amaranth family:
- Shchiritsa is thrown back. The aggressive weed can be found on all continents except the Arctic Circle. Wastelands are his favorite habitat, so there will be no problem how to grow amaranth.
- Sturdy. The early ripening variety reaches 140 cm in height. Brown inflorescences have reddish spots. Will not take root in regions with low temperatures.
- Amaranth paniculata. The homeland of the annual plant is Asia. The red tone of the small flowers looks impressive against the backdrop of elongated and pointed leaves, which become iridescent when frost sets in.
- Common amaranth (vegetable amaranth). A native of America, it grows quickly and is consumed as food. It takes root even on unfertilized soil.
- Amaranth caudate (cascade, avalanche). The plant is native to the American tropics and has red petals and edible seeds and leaves.
- The birthplace of the flower is the Indo-Malay (Eastern) region. The color of the leaves combines yellow, green and red tones. “Three-color illumination” - best variety for decorative landscape.
- White amaranth. The tropics of America gave the world a plant with greenish-white flowers. The culture was appreciated in Europe, Australia and Africa.
- Shuntuk. This variety is popular among farmers. Used for livestock feed.
- Cherry velvet. Dense foliage and neat small inflorescences of bright color are the main indicators of a crop growing in an area where unexpected frosts are not observed.
- Bicolor. The crop is drought-resistant, but requires timely weeding and replenishment of the soil every two weeks.
Chemical composition
Let's analyze the composition of the plant using the example of the most common amaranth:
- fatty acids (myristic, stearic, palmitic, behenic);
- carbohydrates (starch, glucose, sucrose, maltose);
- vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, K);
- macroelements (potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus);
- trace elements (iron, manganese, copper, selenium, zinc);
- phytosterols;
- essential amino acids (arginine, valine, histidine, threonine);
- essential amino acids (aspartic, glutamic, serine).
The composition of amaranth grains and its leaves does not contain cholesterol, caffeine and lactose. The protein content in grass is 13.56 g (371 kcal) per 100 g of product, which exceeds that of wheat. That is why the Japanese put velvet and squid meat on an equal footing in terms of nutritional value.
Amaranth contains cholesterol, caffeine and lactose.
Medicinal properties, harm and use of culture
The herb, rich in microelements and vitamins, helps with:
- cancerous tumors;
- skin inflammation;
- obesity;
- anemia;
- cystitis;
- gastritis;
- chronic fatigue syndrome;
- hemorrhoids;
- diabetes;
- stomatitis;
- atherosclerosis;
- gynecological diseases.
Contraindications when using amaranth:
- allergies and predisposition to Quincke's edema;
- pancreatitis with frequent relapses;
- severe course of cholelithiasis.
The plant is used in landscape design to create flower beds and mixborders. It combines harmoniously with all colors, but looks most impressive against the backdrop of delicate daisies, luxurious ageratum and nirembergia.
Cattail seed oil is unique with its subtle nutty flavor. It is used in cooking and in masks for hair care. It is advisable not to heat the oil, because it loses its beneficial properties. It can be used for salads. Butter pastries It is also good if you use flour from ground velvet seeds.
The dried leaves of the plant are steamed to make a tasty and healthy tea. Upturned amaranth is used as silage and feed for domestic animals (especially pigs and poultry). Boiled leaves of the plant are suitable for human consumption.
How to use amaranth meal?
Amaranth meal - trimmings after squeezing the oil from “cockscombs”. Don't think of them as unnecessary leftovers. Amaranth meal is unique in its ability to burn fats and remove toxins from the body.
The product contains enough protein, so it is recommended for athletes and those who are behind in physical development children. The benefits and harms of amaranth meal are very relative. It all depends on your personal tolerance to the product. Pregnant women and women breastfeeding it is allowed because it helps relieve constipation and improves lactation.
Meal intake - 1 tsp. in the morning and in the evening. It is used as a dietary supplement for 3 weeks. After this period, a break is taken for a period indicated by the attending physician after studying the test results.
Amaranth meal contains a lot of protein
Sowing, collection and storage
The technology for sowing amaranth involves seedling and non-seedling methods. In the first case, planting is carried out in March - April (in a box) and in May - June (in a garden bed). In the second sowing option, the seeds are placed in the ground when there is no danger of frost.
All varieties require care during the first month if we're talking about not about wild amaranth. Cockscomb greens are harvested when they reach 25 cm in height. There is no need to worry about haste because new shoots will soon emerge from the cut tops.
The seeds are collected in September until the panicles with grains begin to turn brown. The resulting harvest is dried in a dark place. Leaves are collected before they fall (late August - early September). It is during this period that they are suitable for preparing medicinal drinks.
Amaranth is sown in seedlings and without seedlings
Recipes
The herb will help with the following pathologies:
- Dermatitis. 350 g of raw materials are steamed in 2 liters of boiling water. The water bath is kept for 15 minutes. The healing liquid is added to the bath, which is taken morning and evening.
- Gastritis. For painful stomach cramps, a miracle porridge is prepared: a glass of seeds is boiled in 0.5 liters of water for 45 minutes. Nuts and fruits are added to porridge during remission of the disease.
- Cystitis. 3 tbsp. l. chopped herbs and inflorescences pour 1 liter hot water. 200 ml of drink at night is enough to drink for a week.
- Chronic fatigue syndrome. 2 tbsp. l. chamomile, birch buds, St. John's wort and amaranth seeds are infused for 2 hours in 0.5 liters of boiling water. Drink a glass of the drug in the morning and before bed.
- Painful menstruation. 1 tbsp. l. Leaves of the herb are poured into 200 ml of hot water and the healing drink is kept for an hour. Drink the liquid in small sips until the spasms stop.
- Enuresis. You will need fresh inflorescences with seeds that need to be crushed. Steam them in a glass of boiling water and use 1 tsp twice a day.
- Cervical erosion. To make tampons, use cotton wool soaked in 2 tbsp. l. velvet oils. Therapy at home is carried out at night for a week.
Controversial issue about grass
There is controversy surrounding beautiful plant: Are amaranth and amaranth twins? The opinion of most experts is that these concepts are identical. Others believe that amaranth simply looks like amaranth. They justify their conclusions by some discrepancy in plant characteristics. Shchiritsa is considered a weed, amaranth is a cultivated herb. However, skeptics do not deny that these are representatives of the same family.
When choosing a crop variety, you should consider the purpose for which it will be grown: for decoration, treatment or consumption. In any case, amaranth is a plant that will definitely be useful to beauty connoisseurs, gourmets and livestock breeders.