How to Grow a Barley Grass

We've all heard of the health benefits of "green foods." Barley grass is considered to be in that category, and juicing barley grass is the typical way to consume this super food full of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll has many health benefits and has been shown to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. Although it is available in capsule and pill form, barley grass is best consumed fresh for the maximum benefits. Although there are several steps involved, including pre-sprouting before planting, growing barley grass is simple and the health benefits are amazing.

Things You'll Need

• Barley seeds
• Seed trays
• Potting soil

Instructions

Pre-Sprouting Barley Seeds

1. Place seeds in a large bowl. Cover completely with cool water approximately 60 to 70 degrees F. Stir the seeds around in the water to mix. Let soak for about 8 to 12 hours or overnight.

2. Drain the seeds. Use a colander held over another bowl or line the colander with cheesecloth; this prevents the seeds from draining through the holes in the colander. Rinse the seeds with cool water; let drain.

3. Set the seeds in direct sunlight or where the temperature is about 70 degrees F. Let sit for 8 for 12 hours.

4. Rinse and drain the seeds again. Set out for another 8 to 12 hours. Repeat this step at least one to three more times until the seeds have sprouted tiny roots approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch long.

Planting Pre-Sprouted Barley Seeds

1. Fill a seed tray to the top with potting soil. Use a tray that has drainage holes in the bottom. Water the soil thoroughly so it is soaking wet; if needed mix the water down into the soil with your hands or a spade.

2. Spread the pre-sprouted seeds over the top of the soil. Spread as evenly as possible. Do not push the seeds down into the soil. Cover the tray with another seed tray; make sure the cover has drainage holes to allow for air circulation.

3. Place the tray in an area with low lighting and a temperature of about 70 degrees. Cooler temperatures will work okay. If it's too hot, mold could grow on the grass.

4. Water once or twice daily to keep the seeds and soil moist. Use a mister or light spray so as not to disturb the seeds.

5. Water once a day once the seed roots are buried in the soil. Use a mister or sprayer so as not to injure the delicate grass when watering. Keep the soil moist; do not over water.

6. Remove the top cover when the grass gets to about 1 to 2 inches tall. This usually occurs in 3 to 4 days. Set the tray in a well-lit area. Keep the soil moist.

7. Harvest the grass after about 10 days or when it reaches 6 to 8 inches tall. Cut the grass right above the soil. If juicing, only cut as much as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Juice barley grass with apples, carrots, celery or any other kinds of fruits or vegetables you like.

References

• Sprout People

Resources

• Benefits of Barley Grass
• More information about Health Benefits of Barley Grass