Sprouts are a winter gardening technique often over-looked by most people. They are a crop that any healthy eater can grow and enjoy. I invested in a sprouting tray system last year after using the cheesecloth held on the canning jar with a rubber band for many years. The sprouts are a bit more consistent in germination in the trays but are not any healthier. Once again, I used a coupon with my seed catalog from Thompson and Morgan's to upgrade my sprouting system last year. It is kind of ironic that I decided to get the sprouts going this week. I had gotten some new alfalfa seeds with the latest order and was ready to go. The day after the sprouts were started, I was listening to the morning news, and they were discussing the e-coli outbreak linked to Jimmy John's and their sprouts. I had mung beans, alfalfa, and radish seeds going in my trays on Tuesday and by Saturday I was rising and draining for fresh eating. I have read some sources that use a 10% hydrogen peroxide rinse with the sprouts to reduce bacteria growth. This is not necessary if you start with fresh, organic seed and store it in a cool, dry location. This is my opinion and go with what you feel comfortable with. My microgreens are not ready for harvest yet, but I put a picture up to see how they have progressed since last week's seeding. I am also seeing my basil germinate and the onions are just starting to poke out of the soil. My daughter's cat, Sully, will be getting some cat grass soon as that is up about 3" now. I have posted the instructions from my seed sprouter and encourage you to check other sources for tips and suggestions as I have. Today, I will enjoy my sandwich with sprouts instead of lettuce.
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