subject: Seed Sprouters: The Simplest Garden [print this page] Even if you dont own land, rent a property with a small plot for a garden, or have so much as a windowsill, you can still plant a garden that will produce healthy, delicious food. Simply buy or make a seed sprouter.
Sprouts are among the healthiest and tastiest natural foods. They are used in spring rolls, stir fry dishes, salads, sandwiches, and countless other ways. They can be grown from all kinds of grain wheat, barley, sorghum, millet; corn, alfalfa seeds, mung beans, soy beans, peas, lentils the variety is almost endless. Since the 1700s, seed sprouters have been used by people looking to cultivate a reliable source of vitamin C even in wintertime. Seed sprouters were pioneered by British naval personnel who were liable to suffer from scurvy on long sea voyages.
Building a homemade seed sprouter is quite simple. Get a supply of mason jars and matching plastic lids. Perforate the lids with several holes using a hammer and nail, making the holes as wide as possible. Layer about an inch of sprouting seeds at the bottom of the jar, fill the vessel to the brim with water, and cover with the perforated lid. Shake the jar lightly to ensure that all the seeds are hydrated. Set the seed sprouter in a sunny location for a day. On the following day, drain the sprouter by inverting it over a sink; the water will empty through the holes.
During the following days, add just enough water to cover the seeds, shaking the jar as before, and leaving the sprouter in sunlight. Keep repeating, and watch for seeds to appear within just a few days.
By growing your own sprouts in this fashion youll have a constant supply of nutrient-rich food. This can continue in the winter time, when practically everything else youre eating will come from cans, jars, or packages. Remember that the British sailors held off scurvy and pellagra by eating sprouts; dont underestimate the value of a seed sprouter as a year-round garden.
