Buckwheat
Fagopyrum esculentum
Also known as
Beech Wheat, Bokwiet (Afr.)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
13b
USDA zone
18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1.5m | Max | 50cm |
50cm | Min | 30cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Buckwheat
Buckwheat Overview
Fagopyrum esculentum produces edible seeds that make a gluten-free, very palatable flour, even though it is not related to wheat. Buckwheat is considered allelopathic; which suppresses the growth of other plants and make it a great “weed” control plant. It is used in the culinary world, as a medicinal plant, green manure, soil conditioner and as a cover crop.
Common problems with Buckwheat
Root rot - occur in cold, wetter conditions, best treat seeds with fungicide before planting.
Buckwheat Companion Plants
How to harvest Buckwheat
Harvest fresh leaves within three weeks of sowing. Flowers will begin to appear 4 - 5 weeks after sowing.
How to propagate Buckwheat
Seed
Sow during Spring or Summer with an optimum spacing of 10 - 15 cm. Sowing depth between 10 - 15 mm. An average germination time of 4 - 5 days can be expected.
Special features of Buckwheat
Attracts useful insects
Ladybugs, also attracts insects like Tanchinid flies and Hoverflies that is known to feed on pests that may harm the plant.
Crop rotation
A light feeder, its deep tap roots can break apart and open up heavy clay soils. Grow before soil crops like carrots, turnips and potatoes.
Other uses of Buckwheat
Culinary
