Buckwheat
Fagopyrum esculentum • Polygonaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Grain/Cover Crop
🌍 Origin Region
Central and East Asia; widely adapted to temperate regions globally
📅 Days to Maturity
30-45 days for flowering (cover crop use); 70-90 days for grain harvest.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
Annual; grown in USDA Zones 3-11 during frost-free periods.
About This Seed
The seeds are small, 4-6mm, triangular or pyramid-shaped, with a hard matte reddish-brown to dark brown outer hull. The plant grows quickly to 2-3 feet with heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small white or pink flowers.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Warm season; plant after last frost through mid-summer; very frost-sensitive
Germination
3-7 days at 65-85°F (18-29°C). High germination rate. Does not require light for germination; no pre-treatment needed.
Planting Instructions
Plant 0.5 to 1 inch deep. Broadcast at 2-3 lbs per 1000 sq ft or space rows 6 inches apart. Prefers well-drained soil, pH 5.0-7.0. Tolerates poor soil.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (at least 6 hours); moderate water needs, though relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Companion Plants
Beneficial with most vegetables as a living mulch; good with clover. Avoid planting with slow-establishing crops that it might shade out.
Special Characteristics
Fast-growing smother crop for weeds, excellent pollinator plant (honeybees), phosphorus scavenger, gluten-free grain source.