Since it is winter, and the grass is not growing well in the coop, I decided to give sprouting grain inside a try. I found a couple posts on sprouting grain in mason jars, and since I have some empty jars with rings, and some extra aluminum window screen, I’m trying this method first.

I tried two types of grain: scratch and annual rye (again because that is what I had). I put 3-4 Tablespoons of seed in each jar and covered them with water. I fit a square of window screen to the top of the jar, folded over the edges so they wouldn’t be as pokey, and screwed down the lid. I let the seeds soak overnight, then tipped them over the sink to drain off the water. I rinsed the seeds twice a day and left the jars on their sides in a low tray to drain.

After three days the scratch was sprouted and I fed it to the chickens. They loved it!

After 5 days, the rye had formed a mat of roots with 2-3” blades of grass. The chickens were not so keen on this, but eventually ate it up.