Quinoa, Dave 407 (Organic)
Chenopodium quinoa. 90-100 days.
Our favorite quinoa because of its unique history and excellent performance here in the Willamette Valley. Golden orange seeds. 4-5′ tall plants with seed heads that turn vivid orange when ripe. High yielding compared to other quinoa grown in low elevations. Short season. Open seed heads shed late season damp weather. Collected in southern Chile and named after quinoa collector and advocate David Cusack, who was murdered in Bolivia in 1984. There is anecdotal evidence that he was murdered by “business interests” that felt threatened by the solidarity amongst quinoa-growing campesinos. Others believe he was murdered due to his activism and research surrounding the CIA’s role in the overthrow of Chilean president Salvador Allende. All very mysterious.
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Sow in pots indoors in April for planting out in May, or direct sow after danger of frost. Recommended spacing is 12” centers. Harvest leaves for salad or cooking greens throughout the season.
Harvest and Seed Saving
Harvest for grain or seed saving when seeds rub off easily in your hand and before autumn rains begin. Hang over a tarp to dry for one week, then dance, rub, or flail seeds from seed heads. Screen and winnow to clean, or place seeds in a bowl and make stirring motion with your arm; chaff rises to the top for easy removal. Rinse well before eating.
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