← Plant Guides

How to Grow Wheatgrass

Wikimedia Commons

Wheatgrass

Triticum aestivum

grass

Wheatgrass is the young seedling stage of common wheat, harvested when 7-10 inches tall before the jointing stage. It is nutrient-dense and commonly juiced for its purported health benefits, though scientific evidence is debated. The grass grows quickly indoors or outdoors and is simple to cultivate.

When should you plant Wheatgrass in your zone?

Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.

Get my Wheatgrass timeline →

Example Wheatgrass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Wheatgrass

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Wheatgrass

    Around Apr 24

    ≈ 7 days after planting

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wheatgrass dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Bright indirect light, 4-6 hours of light daily (can be grown indoors under grow lights)
💧
Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist daily if growing indoors; reduce watering slightly once grass is established
📏
Spacing: 1-2 (densely sown) inches
📅
Days to maturity: 7-10 days to harvest height
🌱
Planting depth: 0.25-0.5 inches; seeds just barely covered

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy or potting soil
pH: 6.0-7.0
Amendments:
Compost Coconut coir Perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Grows year-round indoors; outdoor cultivation in all zones depending on season

1a 1b 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b

Sign up free to see if Wheatgrass grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.

Get my Wheatgrass timeline →

Growth Stages

1

Germination & Sprouting

2-3 days

Seeds germinate within 2-3 days; tiny white shoots and roots emerge from soil

Keep soil evenly moist; use a spray bottle to mist gently; ensure good drainage to prevent mold

2

Shoot Emergence

2-3 days

Green shoots push through soil surface; grass begins to develop leaves and height increases

Maintain consistent moisture and light; continue misting; begin to reduce watering frequency slightly

3

Vegetative Growth

3-5 days

Grass grows rapidly, reaching 3-5 inches tall with multiple leaf blades; vibrant green color develops

Maintain bright light (natural or artificial); water moderately; increase air circulation to prevent fungal issues

4

Pre-Harvest Maturity

1-2 days

Grass reaches 7-10 inches tall with full, dense blade development; color is deep green

Continue regular watering and light exposure; avoid overwatering which causes yellowing; monitor for mold

5

Harvest

Harvest window

Grass is at optimal nutrient density and height for juicing or consumption

Cut just above soil line using sharp scissors or knife; can regrow for a second harvest before replanting

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Common Pests

  • Ensure excellent drainage; increase air circulation with a fan; avoid overwatering; reduce humidity; discard affected trays and start fresh

  • Mist leaves regularly to increase humidity; spray with water or mild neem oil solution; ensure adequate air circulation

Uses

🍳

Juice & Wellness Drinks

Culinary

Fresh wheatgrass juice is consumed as a health supplement, often mixed with other juices or taken as a shot. It is commonly served in juice bars and smoothie shops. [source]

💊

Potential Nutritional Support

Medicinal

Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll, amino acids, and micronutrients; traditional uses claim detoxification and immune support, though clinical evidence remains limited. [source]

🏠

Pet Fodder & Digestive Aid

Household

Wheatgrass is offered to cats, dogs, and other pets as a safe, digestive supplement and source of fresh greens. [source]

🎨

Microgreen Garnish

Craft

Young wheatgrass can be used as an attractive, nutrient-dense garnish for salads, plates, and high-end culinary presentations. [source]

🦋

Bird & Livestock Feed

Wildlife

Fresh wheatgrass is nutritious forage for chickens, rabbits, and birds, providing vitamins and minerals during winter months. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Harvest when grass reaches 7-10 inches tall, typically 7-10 days after planting. Cut just above the soil line with sharp scissors. Wheatgrass can be harvested twice from the same tray before replanting. Juice immediately after cutting for maximum nutrient content, or store in a sealed bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Wheatgrass can be regrown for a second, smaller harvest from the same tray before the nutrient content drops significantly, making it economical for frequent juicers.
  • 🌱 A single ounce of wheatgrass juice is often compared nutritionally to a pound of leafy greens in marketing claims, though scientific backing for this ratio is contested.
  • 🌱 Wheatgrass was popularized in the 1930s by American nutritionist Ann Wigmore, who promoted it as a 'living food' and key component of a raw food diet.
Shop Wheatgrass plants and related plants at Plant Addicts →

Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.

Get your personalized Wheatgrass planting timeline

Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Wheatgrass seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.

Get my Wheatgrass timeline →