Need the Green

When the weather starts to warm up I get the need for some green. I like to plant wheatgrass for decoration in my home. I plant it in flats, but you can plant it in any type of container. It takes about 7-10 days for a lush green patch. With spring and Easter just around the corner this is an inexpensive and easy way to decorate. It is also fun if you have your kids help and have them learn how seeds grow.

Supplies:
- Hard red wheat grass (You can find this at most nutrition stores in bulk)
- Any container or plastic growing flat will do. It is best to use something with a drain. But if you don’t have a drain you will need to make sure you don’t over water and be sure to dump excess water out of the container.
- Spray bottle for misting seedlings
- Paper towels

How to measure your seed:
1/4-1/3 Cups Dry Grain for a 4-5 inch square Tray.
1-2 Cups dry grain for an 11 inch square Tray.
2-4 Cups dry grain for an 11 inch x 22 inch Tray.
The surest way to measure your way is to spread the dry seed in your tray or container. Make sure the seed is spread evenly and densley.

How - to grow Wheatgrass
1. Spread dry seed on the bottom of the area you want to seed making sure that the seed is spread evenly but densely.
2. Rinse the measured out seed and soak in a bowl for 8-12 hours.
3. After they have soaked rinse again and drain.
4. Lay 2- 3 sheets of paper towel in the bottom of the container or flat.
5. Spray the paper towel until moist.
6. Spread seed evenly but densely on the paper towel. (Cut your paper towel to the size of your container or flat so it sits flat in the container or flat).
7. Keep seeds moist so they don’t dry out. Use a spray bottle to mist the seedlings.
8. When the grass starts to grow and get thick pour water on the inside of the container and then you are not damaging your grass. Make sure you drain the remaining water!
9. When growing your grass, make sure you have good air flow or else you can end up with mold in the roots.

It will take about 7-10 days until you have your own grass patch .

Some fun things to do with your wheat grass are:
- Cut into 3x2 squares for a holder for you place cards for your Easter meals.
- Use as a table runner with spring flowers placed into the grass. (Use real or silk flowers).
- Just grow to eat or juice.
- Cats like to eat it as well.
- I just love to grow it and bring some green inside my house while I am waiting for my lawn to green up.
It is up to you on how you decide to use it.