Simple steps to growing Wheatgrass

In order to protect our health, we are advised to increase the consumption of plant foods especially green and dark colored vegetables. But when going through health challenges, it is sometimes impossible to consume the required amounts of these healthy foods. That is why juicing becomes a vital part of the healing process. Juicing grasses, vegetables and fruits helps cleanse, regenerate and rebuild the body. One of the most potent and nourishing juices comes from wheatgrass. Whereas  buying wheatgrass juice can be quite expensive, growing and juicing wheatgrass yourself can be fun and fulfilling! Why don’t you try it and share your experience with us?

• Growing trays or a protected small plant (nursery) bed
• Wheatgrass seeds
• Organic potting mix or organic topsoil (Plant compost is the best). The soil should be light, not too heavy as heavy soil retains too much water which may cause mold. The soil should not contain any droppings or animal waste.
• Plant food: we use seaweed extract. It is really a matter of choice. There are lots to choose from. Kelp, organic seaweed plant food, some people use Azomite Powder, etc.
• Watering can
• Water preferably as a solution with seaweed
• If growing outdoors: net to protect the seeds from preying birds and the grass from animals such as cats, dogs, squirrels, etc.

Simple Steps

1. Measure the wheat grains (normally 1 rounded cup per tray 20 x 11 inches) but this will depend on the size of the tray.  For a smaller tray use 1 flat 8 oz. cup
2. You may rinse it before soaking but if you have clean quality seeds, it is not essential. Soak wheatgrass for 8-12 hours in a clean jar or sprouting jar. Place the container in a cool place.
3. Drain the water from the seed by covering the top of the jar with cheese cloth or perforated top or strainer. Rinse the seeds again.
4. Cover with a damp dark dish cloth for 12 to 24 hours until sprouted.
5. Prepare the soil for planting in a growing container for example: growing tray. Don’t use animal manure. Fill the container to about ¾ to leave enough space for your seeds to grow. Tease your soil and make it as level as possible. Water with a solution of water and seaweed or any other suitable plant food solution (fertilizer).
6. Plant the seeds in the prepared soil by spreading it on top of the soil. The seeds should be close together, carpeted but not in piles. Water with the same plant food solution by spraying gently using a spray bottle or very lightly with a watering can. Make sure the water drains well or it will grow mold.
7. Place a growing tray preferably with no holes on top of the seeds lightly, but do not press it down. This will retain moisture. Place in a warm, dark spot for two days while the seeds start to grow. Keep the seeds moist by watering with the plant food solution as used before.
8. Turn the covering tray upside down to all the grass to grow for 1 more night.
9. Uncover the tray. The grass will be about 1+ inch high. Move it to a sunny place near a window if growing indoors or leave the tray in shade with some sunlight but not in direct hot sun. Continue watering daily with the plant food solution. Make sure the soil is damp but not saturated. Wheatgrass grows very quickly when well watered. Avoid sogging, as it will cause molding.
10. Water daily to keep it moist.
11. When the white sheath at the base of the stalk begins to grow a second grass blade, and the grass is between 7-10 inches in height, it is ready for harvest. This is called the branching stage, the most nutritious stage. If it grows beyond this stage the grass will get tough. Cut the grass for juicing using scissors.

If possible, cut and juice only what you need. If you cut more than you can use, store the rest in the refrigerator in a covered glass bowl or freezer bag. It can last up to 8 days. But remember the fresh juice is best consumed within 15 minutes to prevent oxidation and nutrient loss.

There are numerous benefits from consuming grass juices. See our articles “Our wheatgrass story” and “Wheatgrass pineapple juice cocktail”

What you need: