I start the seeds fairly early and put the plants out usually in April with some frost protection (Reemay or similar fabric over hoops). They just look like bunching grass for a long time, then flower stalks begin to appear.

I don't get a very high yeild per plant, but the flowers are good-looking, dry easily, and, for dried flowers, have pretty long stems. This year, I'll try improving the soil somewhat, although in general plants that dry well seem to prefer things on the lean side.

I've seen some sources that recommend growing them as perennials. I can't manage that in SW Michigan. Even with a lot of frost protection, they die over the winter or exhaust themselves trying to come back in the spring. Better to start them early and pull them in the fall.

I get my seeds from Thompson and Morgan. T&M is usually not my favorite source for most things, but for some reason, on this variety, the seed count is relatively generous and germination is fine. Some other sources charge a lot for a few seeds. T&M also does well with amaranthus varieties, if you're looking to add things to your order to spread out the shipping costs.