Authors : Bhosale R. S.* and Salve K. M.
Page Nos : 75-76
Description :
A blitum is an annual species, reproducing by seed. The flowers are small, green and unattractive. Flowering time generally ranges from summer to winter. Amaranthus blitum L. is predominantly wind-pollinated. In Amaranthus blitum L., seed production is high. Germination occurs after imbibition, when the radicle penetrates the micropyle and emerges from the seed. The hypocotyl then elongates, pushing the seed out of the soil. During movement through the soil the cotyledons and the epicotyl are protected by the seed coat. It is a well known edible weed in khandala taluka of Maharashtra. It is eradicated in well irrigated agriculture zones were modern farming is carried out. Same weed serves as a food source in non irrigated zones as well as it is been sold in local market for economic benefits. Economically it is equally or sometimes more beneficial than regular leaf vegetables sold in local market.
