Lambsquarters

Scientific Name

Chenopodium album

Description

Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album), also known as goosefoot, is a hardy annual plant belonging to the amaranth family, Amaranthaceae. It is often considered a weed due to its abundant growth in disturbed soils, gardens, and agricultural fields. Lambsquarters is native to Europe and Asia but has spread to many parts of North America and other regions.

This plant typically grows between 1 and 4 feet tall, characterized by its smooth, pale green leaves that are diamond-shaped, alternate, and can reach lengths of up to 4 inches. The leaves often have a slightly powdery or mealy texture on the underside, which is a clue to its identity. The stem is usually erect and may be slightly hairy.

Lambsquarters produces small, greenish flowers that cluster in clusters at the end of stems, blooming from late spring through early summer. The flowers are not particularly showy and often go unnoticed. Following the flowering period, the plant produces small seeds that can be dispersed by wind or animals.

This plant is often appreciated for its edible qualities; both leaves and young shoots can be eaten cooked or raw and can be used as a substitute for spinach in various dishes. Nutritionally, lambsquarters is high in vitamins A and C, and it contains minerals such as calcium and iron.

While it can be a beneficial addition to the diet, gardeners should monitor its growth, as it can quickly become invasive in cultivated areas. Lambsquarters thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, disturbed soils, making it a resilient survivor in various environments.

Where it Grows

When to Plant

Timing for Planting Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)

Lambsquarters, commonly known as goosefoot, is a versatile and hardy leafy green that can be grown in various climates. Understanding when to plant this nutritious plant is crucial for achieving a successful harvest.

Ideal Planting Time

Lambsquarters can be planted as both a spring and fall crop, depending on your local climate. Here are guidelines for determining the best time for planting:

• Spring Planting:

  • In regions with mild springs, you can sow lambsquarters seeds as soon as the soil can be worked, typically 2 to 4 weeks before the last expected frost date. This often corresponds to late March to early April in many temperate regions.
  • In areas with a more extended growing season, you can continue to sow seeds until early summer.

• Fall Planting:

  • For a fall crop, seeds can be sown late in the summer, around 6 to 8 weeks before the first expected frost. This usually translates to late July to early August in most areas.
  • Lambsquarters can tolerate light frosts, which may even enhance the flavor of the leaves.

Soil Temperature Considerations

Lambsquarters prefer soil temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C) for optimal germination. Using a soil thermometer can help ensure that conditions are just right for planting.

Observing Local Conditions

• Weather Patterns: Keep an eye on local weather forecasts. Lambsquarters seeds can be sensitive to extremely wet or cold conditions, so it's best to wait for steady warming trends.
• Soil Preparation: Ensure that the soil is well-drained and has been amended with organic matter to encourage healthy growth. Prepping the soil in advance can lead to an earlier planting date.

Starting Indoors versus Direct Sowing

While lambsquarters can be directly sown outdoors, starting seeds indoors can give you a head start. If you choose to start seeds indoors, do so about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant the seedlings outside once they have developed several sets of true leaves and the outdoor conditions are favorable.

Summary

In summary, whether you opt for spring or fall planting, be mindful of the local climate, soil temperature, and seasonal timing to ensure a fruitful harvest of lambsquarters. With a little planning, you can enjoy this nutritious green throughout the growing season.

How to Plant

Planting Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)

Lambsquarters, often regarded as a nutritious wild green, can be easily cultivated in a home garden. The best practice for planting Lambsquarters involves a few key steps to ensure healthy growth and ample harvest.

1. Choose the Right Location: Select a site with full sun to partial shade. Lambsquarters thrive in well-draining soil, rich in organic matter, but they are versatile and can tolerate poorer soil conditions.

2. Prepare the Soil: Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches. Incorporate organic compost to enhance soil fertility, ensuring that your plants receive essential nutrients.

3. Planting Seeds: Sow Lambsquarters seeds directly into the garden beds after the last frost, typically in spring. Space the seeds approximately 2-3 inches apart, as they can grow up to 3 feet tall. Cover lightly with soil, about ¼ inch deep.

4. Watering and Maintenance: Water the seeds lightly to keep the soil moist but not saturated. Once established, Lambsquarters are drought-tolerant. Regular weeding will keep them healthy, as they can be competitive.

5. Harvesting: Harvest leaves when young and tender for consumption, or allow the plants to mature for seed production. Enjoy your homegrown greens!

Watering

Lambsquarters, also known as Chenopodium album, is a resilient and adaptable plant that benefits from a balanced watering strategy. Ideally, water the plants deeply and infrequently rather than applying shallow, frequent watering. This encourages deep root growth, helping them access moisture and nutrients more effectively.

Water in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize evaporation loss. The soil should remain consistently moist but never soggy; allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During particularly hot or dry spells, increase the frequency while being cautious of waterlogging, which can harm the roots. Monitor the plants for signs of dehydration, such as wilting leaves, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Utilizing mulch can help retain soil moisture, reduce weeds, and create a stable growing environment for your Lambsquarters.

Pruning

Pruning Lambsquarters, a hardy annual often considered a weed, can enhance its growth and maintain its desired size. The best strategy involves timing and technique. Begin by selectively removing the taller, older stems to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. This is best done when the plant reaches about 6 to 12 inches in height, ideally in early summer before it flowers. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts, which helps reduce the risk of disease. Aim to prune just above a leaf node to stimulate new growth. Regularly check the plant for any signs of pests or disease and remove affected leaves. Lambsquarters can be quite resilient and often rebounds well after pruning, resulting in a healthier and more productive plant overall. Additionally, consider using the trimmings in salads or as a nutritious cooking green, making good use of your pruning efforts.

Weeding

Weeding around Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) requires careful consideration because this weed is often mistaken for desirable garden plants. The best strategy involves first identifying the plant accurately. It typically has broad, arrow-shaped leaves with a mealy or powdery texture. Start by pulling Lambsquarters by hand or using a hoe, making sure to remove it from the root to prevent regrowth. It's crucial to weed when the soil is moist, as this makes it easier to extract the entire root. Regular monitoring is essential; young Lambsquarters are easier to manage than established ones, so frequent checks will help reduce their spread. Additionally, mulching around desired plants can suppress Lambsquarters and other weeds by blocking sunlight and conserving moisture. Implementing these practices consistently can significantly decrease the presence of Lambsquarters in your garden.

Mulching

When mulching Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album), it's essential to choose organic materials that will enhance growth while suppressing weeds. Begin by applying a layer of mulch, such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves, around the base of the plant to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. This helps retain soil moisture, moderates soil temperature, and provides nutrients as the mulch breaks down. Ensure that the mulch is placed a few inches away from the plant stem to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to rot or disease. Regularly check the mulch layer, replenishing it as necessary when it decomposes or washes away. Timing is also crucial; mulching should ideally be done in early spring when the plant is establishing, as this supports its growth while limiting competition from weeds. This method not only benefits Lambsquarters but also promotes a healthier garden ecosystem overall.

Fertilizing

Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) is a resilient edible weed that's often considered a wild green. While it typically thrives in nutrient-rich soils, a targeted fertilization strategy can enhance its growth. Begin with a soil test to determine nutrient levels, especially nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If deficiencies are identified, use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or an organic option, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to amend the soil.

Apply the fertilizer in early spring as the plants start to emerge and again during the mid-growing season, following package instructions for application rates. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Lambsquarters can thrive on less, and excess nutrients might lead to reduced flavor and increased pest attraction. Water the plants adequately post-fertilization to help nutrients absorb into the soil. Regular monitoring for pest issues and adjusting care based on the growth conditions will further ensure a healthy crop.

Varieties

Lambsquarters, scientifically known as Chenopodium album, is a versatile plant that belongs to the amaranth family. While the species itself is widely recognized, it also encompasses several common varieties and regional forms, each with its unique characteristics.

One of the most prevalent varieties is the White Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album var. album), which is favored for its nutrient-rich leaves, commonly used in salads and cooked dishes. This variety typically features broad, green leaves with a powdery white coating, especially on the undersides, giving it a distinct appearance.

Another notable type is the Red Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album var. rubrum), characterized by its reddish stems and sometimes reddish tinge on the leaves. This variety is also edible and may add an interesting color contrast to dishes.

While these are the primary varieties recognized in gardening and culinary contexts, many local adaptations exist that may show variations in leaf shape, stem color, or overall plant height, often depending on the specific environment and growing conditions. As a member of the weedy plant category, Lambsquarters can hybridize, leading to the emergence of additional forms that may be identified in specific areas, contributing to its reputation as a resilient and adaptable plant.

In any garden, particularly in permaculture and organic gardening practices, Lambsquarters can serve as a valuable green, helping to enhance soil quality and providing a delicious, nutritious harvest.

Nutritional Composition (per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount per 100g	% Daily Value
Calories	75	4%
Protein	4.2 g	8%
Total Fat	1.0 g	2%
Saturated Fat	0.2 g	1%
Carbohydrates	13.0 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	2.7 g	11%
Sugars	0.5 g	-
Calcium	140 mg	14%
Iron	2.6 mg	14%
Magnesium	60 mg	15%
Potassium	404 mg	12%
Vitamin A	4600 IU	92%
Vitamin C	33 mg	55%
Vitamin K	2.1 µg	2%
Folate	72 µg	18%

Health Benefits

Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) is a leafy green plant often regarded as a wild edible with a variety of health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as several B vitamins, it is often praised for its nutrient density. The high levels of calcium, iron, and magnesium make it a valuable addition to diets, especially for those seeking plant-based sources of these minerals.

Due to its antioxidant properties, lambsquarters may help combat oxidative stress in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Its high fiber content aids in digestion and can contribute to better gut health, promoting regularity and alleviating constipation.

Furthermore, lambsquarters contain phytochemicals that may possess anti-inflammatory properties, making it a relevant plant for those interested in natural remedies for inflammatory conditions. Traditionally, it has been used in herbal medicine to support healthy blood sugar levels and as a mild diuretic, promoting kidney health and aiding in detoxification.

As a versatile green, lambsquarters can be consumed in salads, soups, or cooked as a side dish, offering an easy way to incorporate its health benefits into everyday meals.

Fun Facts

• Lambsquarters, also known as Chenopodium album, is a highly nutritious leafy green often considered a wild edible, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
• This plant is sometimes referred to as “wild spinach,” as its leaves can be used similarly in cooking, providing a similar flavor and texture to traditional spinach.
• Lambsquarters have a distinctive powdery, whitish coating on their leaves, which helps protect them from pests and can be wiped off before consumption if desired.
• Many gardeners appreciate Lambsquarters for their rapid growth and hardiness, often sprouting in poor soils and thriving in disturbed areas, making them a common sight in gardens and fields.
• The seeds of Lambsquarters are edible and can be harvested to create a nutritious flour, while the plant itself is beneficial for attracting pollinators and providing forage for wildlife.