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Buckwheat

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Common Name:

Buckwheat

Botanical Name:

(Fagopyrum esculentum)

Family Name:

Polygonaceae

Exposure:

Full Sun

Common uses:

Buckwheat is a very versatile crop and almost every part of the plant is usable. Buckwheat is a pseudo cereal and it is gluten free, making it an invaluable grain for those with gluten sensitivity. The green leaves and flowers are high in Rutin and can be added to salads or sandwiches. The seeds (de-husked) can be cooked as a porridge and is high in antioxidants and fiber with a low GI. In the garden Buckwheat is a forage crop for bees and other pollinators and the honey derived from buckwheat flowers is a dark color with a rich earth taste. It will also attract carnivorous wasps that feasts on aphids.

Growing:

Buckwheat is a fast growing annual that prefers cooler weather but not frost. They can be interplanted with other crops and grows best with low fertilizer applications. The seeds should be sown directly in the soil and kept moist until germination takes place, usually within a week or so. Watering should be adequate to maintain good moisture levels throughout the growing period but should never be water logged. We found that a good weekly watering is sufficient.