Sprouting your own seeds at home is a rewarding and healthy hobby that can provide you with fresh, nutrient-dense sprouts year-round. One of the most popular and effective ways to grow sprouts is using a seed sprouting jar kit with wide mouth mason jars. These kits come with everything you need to get started, including the jars, lids, trays, and even the seeds in some cases.
What to Look for in a Seed Sprouting Jar Kit
When choosing a seed sprouting jar kit, there are several important factors to consider:
Jar material: Look for kits that use high-quality, durable materials like glass or food-grade plastic for the jars. Avoid kits with jars made from lower-quality plastics that may leach chemicals.
Lid material: The lids should be made from food-grade stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Stainless steel lids are rust-proof and durable, while plastic lids are lightweight and easy to use.
Mesh screen: The mesh screen that fits inside the lid is crucial for proper drainage and airflow. Look for kits with fine mesh screens that will keep even the smallest seeds from falling through while still allowing water to drain easily.
Blackout sleeves: Some kits come with blackout sleeves that fit over the jars. These are useful for growing sprouts that require darkness, like alfalfa or broccoli sprouts.
Included seeds: Some kits come with a selection of organic, non-GMO sprouting seeds to get you started. This can be a convenient way to try out different varieties.
Top Seed Sprouting Jar Kits
Here are some of the best seed sprouting jar kits available:
Haswe Seed Sprouting Jar Kit: This kit includes two wide mouth mason jars, stainless steel mesh screens, blackout sleeves, a tray, and a stand. The lids and mesh are made from food-grade ABS plastic and stainless steel for rust-proofing. It’s a complete kit for growing broccoli, alfalfa, mung beans, and more.
Masontops Single Jar Sprouting Kit: This kit includes a wide mouth mason jar, a reusable bean screen lid, and organic sprouting seeds. The lid is made from BPA-free plastic and is dishwasher safe. It’s a simple, affordable option for growing sprouts at home.
Handy Pantry Deluxe Sprouting Kit: This kit includes four wide mouth mason jars, stainless steel mesh screens, blackout sleeves, and a stand. It’s a great choice for those who want to grow larger quantities of sprouts or try out different varieties simultaneously.
How to Use a Seed Sprouting Jar Kit
Using a seed sprouting jar kit is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Soak the seeds: Place the desired amount of seeds in the jar and cover with water. Soak for the recommended time, usually 6-12 hours.
Drain and rinse: Drain the water from the jar through the mesh screen. Rinse the seeds thoroughly with fresh water.
Invert and drain: Place the jar upside down at a slight angle to allow any excess water to drain out. This helps prevent mold growth.
Repeat rinsing: Rinse and drain the seeds 2-3 times per day, depending on the type of sprout you’re growing. Alfalfa sprouts may need more frequent rinsing than mung bean sprouts, for example.
Harvest: Sprouts are usually ready to harvest in 3-7 days, depending on the variety. Once they reach the desired size, rinse them one final time and enjoy!
Sprouting your own seeds at home is a fun and rewarding way to add fresh, nutritious sprouts to your diet. With the right seed sprouting jar kit and a little bit of care, you can enjoy delicious sprouts like broccoli, alfalfa, and mung beans year-round. Happy sprouting!
