Mould growth is very common when
growing wheatgrass and
even commercial growers will have some mould in the summer months unless
their growing rooms are temperature controlled. Because the shoots of
wheatgrass are grown very close together, the moist conditions at the base
of the shoots are the perfect environment for mould to grow, especially
when there are temperatures of over 25c degrees.
As annoying as it
may be, mould that grows on wheatgrass has been found to
be harmless to humans and when you are ready to juice you can cut above
the affected areas. It is only in the most severe cases that mould will
affect the actual growth of wheatgrass, so as long as it is not affecting
your grass too much, don't be discouraged. Here are a few methods and tips
to try and combat or reduce mould growth.
- Using the best wheat grain is very important. Sprout Organic
Wheatgrass is constantly testing new varieties of certified
organic and biodynamic wheats which are less prone to mould. If you are
having trouble with your current wheat, why not give ours a try. Go to
Wheatgrass kits
and supplies for more information.
- Temperature is the biggest
contributor to mould growth. Keeping your wheatgrass in the coolest
place possible during those hotter days will help to reduce mould.
Organic Retailers and juice bars often leave their wheatgrass in their
cool rooms with great success on the hotter days.
- Avoid soaking the wheatgrass seed
for too long during hotter days.
- Keep your wheatgrass in a well
ventilated position.
- Avoid over watering your
wheatgrass.
- Citrus extracts do have a very
small effect on reducing mould growth, however after many trials we have
not had enough success to make it worthwhile using.
- Mould feeds on dead organic matter
and usually starts on the dead seeds that haven't germinated. Try to
make sure that you have the best germination possible by keeping the
seed moist during the germination phase. The most critical period is
when you have just spread the seed out on the tray, to when the first
root finally plants itself into the soil and starts drawing water from
the soil. The best method to use is to keep something damp draped over
the seeds until the shoots are 1-2cm. (An old t-shirt or a sheet that
has been ripped up works well)
- If you are using compost from your
own garden, make sure that it is very well composted. (If your compost
is still decomposing it will increase mould growth).
The most common type of mould that we find
is slime mould which is a white, fluffy (cottonwool) mould that can cover
the entire tray at the base of the grass and can grow up to 3-5cms high in
more severe cases.
Remember: Don't worry
if your wheatgrass has mould - it might not look
particularly attractive but it is harmless.
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