Sprouting Essentials

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Learn all about the Sprouting Essentials

Soaking: Dry seeds and grains are dormant. Soaking ends its dormancy and begins a new life. In nature this seed will make a plant which can, in turn make seeds, which in turn make more plants, which can make more seeds, etc..

Air circulation: As with any living thing, if they can't breathe while growing, they die. A piece of nylon screen is easily positioned with a rubber band and allows plenty of airflow. A Clean nylon stocking works, too. Some prefer the little purple bag that shallots are packaged in.

Rinsing: Water is the key ingredient to growing sprouts. Use it liberally. Given proper moisture, a seed will germinate. Rinsing is the process by which we add moisture to our sprouts.

Draining: Sitting in a puddle is the most common cause of crop failure. A sour smell is the first sign of crop failure. After rinsing, it is essential to drain off as much water as humanly possible. Draining is the process by which we regulate the amount of moisture our sprouts have available-until their next rinse.

Darkness: Most grow better when covered or put away. Most kitchens are pretty bright and not conducive to sprouting.

Warmth: 75-80 degrees F.