Sprouting Chia and Other Small Seeds (with Pictures)

In this Instructable I will show you how to sprout small mucilaginous seeds. Because these seeds form a mucilaginous coat when soaked in water they can't be sprouted using the usual mason jar method. These seeds are best grown on terracotta, clay or ceramic dishes or trays. If you are familiar with Chia Pets, this shouldn't be a surprise.

Mucilaginous seeds that can be sprouted this way:

Chia
Arugula
Cress
Flax
Mizuna
Radish

Seeds can be obtained from specialized sprouting seed sites (ie; Mumms, or Sprout People). Chia and flax seeds can be found at health food stores.

What you will need:

Growing tray/dish -Unglazed terracotta, ceramic or clay. Such as an unglazed pie plate, or plant saucers.
Clear glass or plastic bowl that fits over growing tray/dish
Spray bottle and watering can

Soak dish/tray

Fill dish with water. Let soak for several minutes then drain. Sprinkle your seeds onto the dish, they should be evenly spread and only a single layer. There should be space between seeds to allow them to spread while growing. Cover with clear glass or plastic bowl and place in a sunny spot.

Spray

Spray the dish twice a day (I do it in the morning and evening). It may require more In warmer weather. Make sure the surface of the dish is wet at all times but there is no pooling water. Keep covered.

Continue watering

After a few days you can water it by pouring it into the dish from a water can or faucet and then draining it. The sprouts should stay put. Again make sure the surface of the dish is wet at all times but there is now pooling water.

Harvesting

The sprouts are ready to harvest when they are about 1/2 -3/4 inch high which should about 4-7 days depending on the type of seed and time of year (where I live it takes longer in the winter months). You can cut the sprouts just above the roots and use directly. Or you can also take the whole thing, roots and all, lift off of the tray roots and all and store in a partially closed container in the fridge for up to 10 days ( just cut the sprouts above the roots for eating). Don't water prior to harvesting.