Place the quantity you wish to sprout in a bowl, and cover completely with water.

The water level should be well above the top of the seeds to allow for swelling.

Soak only the quantity you wish to sprout overnight, or 12-16 hours. Only soak enough that would last 3 days of feeding, depending on the number of birds you have. After soaking is complete, rinse and drain well through a fine screened spahetti strainer and place the drained mix in a sprouting jar or tray. I use a tray, covered to keep humidity in so the mix doesn't dry out, but not tightly as air movement is important. Rinse and drain two or three times a day until the water runs clear and place back in the tray or jar. If you are going to use GSE or any other bacteria preventative you must first soak the mix for at least 8 hrs to allow it to swell and puff up with water, you then rinse and add fresh water, and then add the GSE in the final soaking period.

The first sprouts usually appear within 12 to 24 hours after the soak period , some taking as long as 36 hours, (it depends on temperature and humidity in your location). Ideally your sprouting temperature should be between 65 and 75 degrees, so placing the tray on your kitchen counter works well. Higher temperatures or humidity will start germination quicker. Keep your sprouts in indirect light and allow no more than 1/4 inch in growth for their maximum enzyme activity

I start feeding 24-36 hrs after the initial soak period when the items have just started to show a tiny white root and the nutrition level is at its highest. Not all the ingredients will be showing sprout activity at this time, but germination has begun inside so the nutrition level has increased. Daily I start another batch soaking to ensure that I have a continuous supply of fresh, live food for my birds. But I only sprout enough at one time that I will use within 2-3 days, if the sprouts/roots get too long they can become bitter and some birds do not like the taste. Once sprouting has started you can keep the drained mix in the refridgerator to slow down the growth.

The highest protein and nutritional value is achieved when the tip of the root first appears. As the root gets longer, and the shoot appears, the level of protein and vitamins sinks rapidly. With only a few minutes a day you will be feeding your birds a most vital and nutritious avian diet. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sprouts should not be fed as the sole diet, but in addition to your birds regular fruits, veggies, seeds, nuts, treats, etc.