I didn't plant any Amaranth this year. What I have growing came up on it's own, and it started late, which is unusual for a self- seeder. It is just now starting to bloom. For a short season, you would want to start indoors early. They're really good about separating and transplanting. You could start them in a tub for all they care, and then pull them apart for planting outside. As for harvesting the seed, I snip the spent plumes off very carefully and place them in a bag to scrunch up and shake. The chaff is very airy; spread it out on a plate and blow the chaff off of the seeds. It's pretty fun -- makes me feel all rustic! My hands are bright red afterwards, and they smell somewhat of cherries!