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.
- 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).
