How to Grow Wheatgrass
Wikimedia Commons
Wheatgrass
Triticum aestivum
grassWheatgrass is the young green shoots of the wheat plant, harvested at 7-10 days of growth before the jointing stage. It is prized for its nutrient density and is commonly consumed as a fresh juice or powder supplement. The grass grows quickly indoors or outdoors and requires minimal space.
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.
Example Wheatgrass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Wheatgrass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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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
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Wheatgrass can be grown year-round indoors in any climate; outdoors it thrives in cool to temperate zones
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Get my Wheatgrass timeline →Growth Stages
Soaking & Germination
1-2 daysSeeds are soaked overnight and begin to sprout; white roots emerge within 1-2 days
Use clean, untreated wheat berries; maintain warm temperature (65-75°F); ensure excellent drainage to prevent mold
Root Development
2-3 daysWhite root network forms and anchors into the soil; seeds are fully sprouted with small root mass visible
Keep soil moist; ensure good air circulation; provide minimal light at this stage; watch for mold and remove affected seeds
Shoot Emergence
2-3 daysGreen shoots begin to break through the soil surface and grow upward; first true leaves unfold
Increase light exposure gradually; maintain consistent moisture; mist twice daily if humidity is low
Rapid Growth
3-5 daysGrass grows 1-2 inches per day; blades are vibrant green, upright, and densely packed
Provide 12-16 hours of bright light daily; maintain soil moisture without waterlogging; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Harvest Ready
1 day (harvest window)Grass reaches 6-10 inches tall; blades are bright green and tender; roots form a dense mat
Harvest when grass is vibrant green and before the second leaf appears (jointing stage); grass is at peak nutritional value
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
(Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp.)
Ensure excellent air circulation with a small fan; avoid overwatering; do not let water sit on leaves; sanitize trays between crops; remove affected seeds immediately
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Allow soil surface to dry slightly between mistings; use yellow sticky traps; ensure good drainage; cover soil with a thin layer of sand to prevent egg-laying
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Use high-quality, untreated wheat berries; sanitize all equipment and trays with a dilute bleach solution; maintain proper humidity (50-70%)
Uses
Fresh Juice & Smoothies
CulinaryWheatgrass is pressed or juiced to create a nutrient-dense green juice, typically consumed as a 1-2 ounce shot. It can also be blended into smoothies for added chlorophyll and vitamins. [source]
Nutritional Supplement
MedicinalRich in chlorophyll, enzymes, amino acids, and vitamins A, C, and E. Traditionally used to support detoxification, boost immunity, and provide antioxidant benefits. [source]
Dried Powder
HouseholdDehydrated wheatgrass can be ground into a fine powder and added to smoothies, water, or other beverages for convenient daily supplementation. [source]
Digestive & Anti-inflammatory Support
MedicinalThe enzymes and nutrients in wheatgrass may support digestive health and reduce inflammation when consumed regularly. [source]
Pet Nutrition
WildlifeFresh wheatgrass is safe and beneficial for cats, dogs, and other pets; it provides greens, aids digestion, and supports natural detoxification. [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 is 6-10 inches tall and bright green, typically 7-10 days after planting. Cut just above the soil line using sharp scissors or a sharp knife. Wheatgrass can be harvested once; after cutting, the root system will not regenerate a second crop. Juice immediately for maximum nutrient content, or store fresh cut grass in a refrigerator for up to 3 days. For powder, dry harvested grass in a dehydrator at low temperature (95-110°F) until completely dry, then grind in a blender.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Wheatgrass has been used in traditional medicine and wellness practices for over 5,000 years, particularly in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine traditions.
- 🌱 One ounce of fresh wheatgrass juice is nutritionally equivalent to approximately 2.2 pounds of fresh vegetable greens in terms of nutrient density.
- 🌱 Wheatgrass can be grown year-round indoors on a windowsill or with grow lights, making it one of the fastest and most productive home crops—ready to harvest in just 7-10 days.
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