How to grow oats at home
Oats are a healthy grain that contains vitamins and minerals. It is eaten by both humans and animals. Sprouted grains are especially beneficial, although it is almost impossible to buy them. If you have a healthy diet or have a pet, we suggest you learn how to grow oats at home.
How to grow oats for human consumption
Oat sprouts contain vegetable protein, magnesium, zinc and iron. Sprouted grains strengthen the immune system, stimulate the production of antibodies and leukocytes, improve the condition of the skin, and have other beneficial properties. However, due to the fact that the sprouts are rather fragile, it is extremely difficult to find such a product on sale.
Growing oats at home is easy. To do this, you will need:
- grains suitable for germination (naked oats);
- pure water;
- small capacity (only not aluminum);
- gauze or a new piece of cotton fabric.
Oats will need to be sorted out to weed out spoiled grains.
Place the beans in a colander and rinse under running water. Pour the oats into a small container and fill with water so that it is 2 cm higher than the seeds. Set it aside for swelling for 8 hours in a dark place. During this time, the grains will absorb more than 50% of moisture.
After the time has elapsed, remove the swollen seeds and rinse them again with water. Spread damp gauze or cloth on a flat container, pour oats on top and cover it with the free edge of the cut. Place the container in a warm place for another 8 hours.
Sprouted oats can be stored in the refrigerator. There it will continue to grow, but more slowly. Seeds can be used to prepare cereals, breads, jelly and protein shakes. Sprouted by more than 6 mm, as well as green sprouts, are prohibited for human consumption. This can cause poisoning.
How to grow oats for pets
In winter, when there is no green grass in the yard, oats become a favorite treat for animals. It can be given to birds, rodents, cats, dogs and rabbits.
To grow oats you will need:
- oats;
- water;
- clean sawdust;
- low capacity.
It is better to take grains unpeeled, and sawdust – without impurities.
Pour shavings (1,5–2 cm) on the bottom of the container. Spread the oats on top and sprinkle it with another layer of sawdust. Sprinkle plenty of water over the seeds. Tamp all layers and drain off excess liquid if necessary. Place the container on a windowsill.
Water the grains daily, but not liberally. Green shoots will appear in 2-3 days. You can treat them to your pets.
It is difficult to overestimate the benefits of sprouted oats for the body. It is also a great way to saturate the diet of pets with vitamins and minerals. And the best part is that it is easy and simple to grow cereals at home.