How to grow chia seeds in a mason jar

How to grow chia seeds in a mason jar

Smoothies have become popular for their ability to be made quickly and easily at any time of day. They’re often recommended as a healthy alternative to traditional breakfast, which can take longer to prepare. And the most common ingredient? Chia seeds. But, did you know that chia seeds can be grown and eaten as microgreens too? In fact, chia microgreens are so easy to grow that you can even do it using mason jars.

Let’s get started.

How to grow chia seeds in a mason jar

Option A: Plant directly into the soil

You will need:

• mason jars with lid (sterilized)
• chia seeds
• potting soil mix
• pebbles
• clean water

Step 1: Place a handful of pebbles at the bottom of your mason jar, about 2 inches high. This is very important because it creates a “drainage system” which will prevent the roots from rotting.

Step 2: Add a handful or more of your potting mix on top of the pebbles. Chia seeds can germinate well even with less soil. Therefore, there’s no need for you to fill the whole container. Leave about 1 to 2 inches of space between the soil and the rim.

Step 3: Add 1 to 1 tsp. of chia seeds directly into the soil. Spread evenly as you can. The seeds don’t have to be buried deep into the soil. Keep the seeds as close to the surface as possible for easy germination.

Step 4: Sprinkle water onto the seeds using a spray bottle. Then, put the lid on to keep the soil from drying out. Store in a cool dry place.

Step 5: When your chia seeds have started showing leaves, remove the cover, and transfer it to a bright spot with indirect sunlight. The soil needs to stay damp for the seeds to keep growing. Sprinkle with water every day as needed.

Step 6: In 10-14 days, your chia microgreens are ready to be harvested. In this stage, they are about 1-3 inches tall and you may cut them using a pair of scissors or a sharp knife.

Option B: The paper towel method

You will need:

• seedling tray or disposable food container with a lid
• chia seeds
• paper towels
• clean water

Step 1: Place 1-2 sheets of paper towels on the surface of the seedling tray. Moisten the paper towels with clean water using a spray bottle. The paper towels need to be damp but not too wet.

Step 2: Spread the chia seeds as evenly as you can. Then, sprinkle them again with water. Cover the seedling tray and store it in a cool dry place.

Step 3: When your chia seeds have started showing leaves, remove the cover, and transfer it to a bright spot with indirect sunlight. The paper towels need to stay damp for the seeds to keep growing. Sprinkle with water every day as needed.

Step 4: In 10-14 days, your chia microgreens are ready to be harvested. In this stage, they are about 1-3 inches tall and you may cut them using a pair of scissors or a sharp knife.

Storage tips: Chia seeds are best eaten right away after harvesting them. But, you can store them inside the fridge to prolong their shelf life. After gently patting them dry with paper towels, place them in a food storage container or resealable plastic bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for chia seeds to grow?

With proper care, chia seeds can grow in 3-14 days.

Can chia seeds grow without soil?

Yes, it can. Aside from using regular potting soil, chia seeds can grow in a soil-less medium like coconut coir, hemp felt, or even paper towels.

Do you soak chia seeds before sprouting?

Although it’s not necessary to soak chia seeds before sprouting, make it a habit to read the instructions of the seed packet before planting. This can guarantee the success rate of your microgreens.

Can you sprout store-bought chia seeds?

Yes, you can. Chia seeds bought from grocery stores can be planted indoors in a soil-less medium or in regular potting soil to grow microgreens.

More than just a smoothie: What else can you do with chia seeds?

1 Chia pudding

2. Chia shortbread

4. Use chia leaves as spinach alternative to salads

6. Add chia microgreens as topping to your avocado toast

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for chia seeds to grow?

With proper care, chia seeds can grow in 3-14 days.

Can chia seeds grow without soil?

Yes, it can. Aside from using regular potting soil, chia seeds can grow in a soil-less medium like coconut coir, hemp felt, or even paper towels.

Do you soak chia seeds before sprouting?

Although it’s not necessary to soak chia seeds before sprouting, make it a habit to read the instructions of the seed packet before planting. This can guarantee the success rate of your microgreens.

Can you sprout store-bought chia seeds?

Yes, you can. Chia seeds bought from grocery stores can be planted indoors in a soil-less medium or in regular potting soil to grow microgreens.

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed today’s topic on how to grow chia seeds in a mason jar.

Growing chia seeds indoors is a great way to save money and encourages you to eat healthy. If you live in a small apartment, growing plants indoors allows you to control the environment better, which means you don’t need to worry about pests.

What would you like to grow next? Let us know in the comments.