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Do you ever wish you had a plant growing in your home which you could use to make an instant healthy juice? Then you need wheatgrass. Sourcing fresh, organic wheatgrass is difficult so growing your own is always a good idea. Wheatgrass is a nutritional powerhouse, containing vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as B vitamins such as B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, and B12. It also provides minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, along with essential amino acids.
Wheatgrass is loaded with antioxidants, including flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and chlorophyll. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
It also aids in detoxification by stimulating the liver and kidneys to remove toxins from the body. The chlorophyll in wheatgrass has been shown to bind to toxins and heavy metals, promoting their elimination from the body. The best thing is growing wheatgrass is easier than you think! Let’s find out.
Choosing the right seeds
Before you start growing wheatgrass at home, it's crucial to select high-quality seeds. Look for organic, untreated wheatgrass seeds specifically labelled for sprouting or growing wheatgrass. These seeds are typically free from pesticides and other chemicals, ensuring a healthy and vibrant crop. Opt for seeds that are plump, uniform in size, and have a high germination rate. You can purchase wheatgrass seeds from health food stores, garden centres, or online suppliers specializing in sprouting seeds.
Find the right growing medium
Wheatgrass can be grown in a variety of growing mediums, but one of the most popular options is soil. To prepare your growing medium, choose a high-quality potting mix that is lightweight, well-draining, and rich in nutrients. Fill a shallow tray or flat with the potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top for the seeds.
Before planting the seeds, moisten the potting mix thoroughly with water. Avoid oversaturating the soil, as excessive moisture can lead to mould and fungal growth. Once the soil is evenly moistened, scatter the wheatgrass seeds evenly across the surface, pressing them lightly into the soil with your fingertips. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and mist the surface with water to keep it moist.
Alternatively, you can grow wheatgrass hydroponically using a nutrient solution instead of soil. Hydroponic growing kits specifically designed for wheatgrass are available and offer a convenient and mess-free option for indoor cultivation.
Enough sunlight is key
Wheatgrass thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and moderate temperatures. Choose a sunny windowsill or a well-lit area in your home where the wheatgrass can receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement with grow lights to ensure optimal growth.
Maintain a consistent temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C) throughout the growing period. Avoid placing the wheatgrass tray in direct sunlight or in areas prone to drafts or extreme temperatures. Proper watering is essential for healthy wheatgrass growth. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to mould and root rot. Water the wheatgrass regularly, using a spray bottle or gentle watering can to avoid disturbing the seeds and seedlings.
To promote healthy growth and prevent mould, ensure good air circulation around the wheatgrass tray. Use a small fan set on low to gently circulate air around the plants, especially in humid environments.
As the wheatgrass grows, it will require nutrients to support its vigorous growth. If using soil, you can fertilize the wheatgrass with a diluted organic fertilizer once it has established a root system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution and application rates, and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the delicate roots.
Harvesting wheatgrass at the right time
Wheatgrass is typically ready for harvest 7-10 days after planting, once it reaches a height of 6-8 inches. Harvesting at the right time ensures that the wheatgrass is at its peak nutritional value and flavour.
To harvest wheatgrass, use clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut the grass just above the soil level. Avoid cutting too close to the roots, as this can damage the plant's regrowth potential.
Harvest only as much wheatgrass as you need for immediate consumption to ensure freshness and potency. Store any leftover wheatgrass in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.
Water immediately after harvesting
After the initial harvest, wheatgrass will continue to regrow, providing you with multiple harvests from a single planting. To encourage regrowth, water the wheatgrass immediately after harvesting to keep the soil moist and promote new growth. Allow the wheatgrass to regrow for another 7-10 days before harvesting again. To maintain the quality of your crop, consider replanting with fresh seeds every 2-3 weeks to ensure a continuous supply of healthy wheatgrass.
