Chia seeds, originally used by the ancient Aztec culture as a food source, are prized for being high in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients. However, many gardeners sprout and grow chia seeds, generally to a height of approximately 1/2 inch, because growing the seeds changes their nutrient levels. For example, sprouted chia seeds have higher levels of certain minerals and vitamins compared to dormant, non-sprouted chia seeds. Instead of buying sprouted chia seeds in a health food store, save money by growing chia seeds at home.
Use the Sprinkle Method
While many types of seeds are best sprouted and grown in a jar, such as wheat and various kinds of beans, chia seeds grow best using the sprinkle sprouting method. Add equal amounts of chia seeds and water to a shallow tray. After an hour, tilt the tray to pour out the water, leaving behind the moistened chia seeds. Cover the tray with foil to trap in the moisture. After approximately four days, the chia seeds will start to grow.
Pick the Right Water
Many cities and townships add various chemicals, such as chlorine, to the tap water. Such chemicals can inhibit or slow the sprouting and growth rate for chia seeds. For the fastest sprouting results, chia seeds should only be grown with non-chlorinated water, such as bottled spring water or water that you have run through a filtration system.
Keep Things Warm
While many types of vegetable seeds easily grow at room temperatures ranging from 68 degrees to 72 degrees Fahrenheit, chia seeds grow best at slightly warmer temperatures. Use a space heater or heating pad to maintain a temperature of approximately 70 to 85 degrees around the chia seeds during the germination and growth period.
Don't Presoak the Chia Seeds
Legumes, such as garbanzo beans, and many other forms of seeds grow fastest if they're first presoaked for 24 hours before placed into a sprouting jar or sprouting tray. However, this common practice should be avoided when trying to grow chia seeds. That's because the seeds create a gel-like surface if they're soaked for too long, which in turn inhibits germination and can cause the seeds to start rotting before they're given a chance to grow.
Measure the Growth
Chia seeds are best consumed when they've grown approximately 1/2 inch long. If you can't eat the chia sprouts all at once, put them in a sealed container and store them in your refrigerator for up to 14 days. This stops their growth and helps slow the formation of bacteria.
- Columbia Health: Chia Seeds and Nutrition
- BBC News Magazine: The Chia Craze
- Vitality Magazine: Chia Seed
- Oregon State University Extension: Grow Your Own Vegetable Sprouts
- University of Wisconsin Extension: Growing Edible Sprouts at Home
- North Carolina State University Extension: Bean Sprouts and Other Vegetable Seed Sprouts