Problems with mold on your wheatgrass or sunflower greens?
While wheatgrass and sunflower sprouts are easy to grow, there is always a chance of mold developing. Mold may occur due to a bad batch of seed, or because the seeds have been over watered.
In the early stages of growth before the seeds are exposed to light they will often sprout loads of fine white roots that can be mistaken for mold.
If you have problems with mold then try using seed from another supplier.
Types of Mold on Wheatgrass or Sunflower Greens
There are different types of mold that can occur on wheatgrass or sunflower greens:
The most common is spiderweb or cotton mold that grows up the grass or stem. This is said to be caused by airborne mold, and can simply be rinsed off.
Another common mold grows directly on the seed. The seed will look an unpleasant blue or green colour. When harvesting wheatgrass or sunflower greens be sure to cut above the seeds to avoid any such mold.
The one to watch out for is a brown mold that effects the roots. It is most common in hot weather. This mold is harmful and I would recommended that you do not use the wheatgrass or sunflower greens if this occurs, especially if it spreads to the stalks of the plant. It is important to wash all infected seed trays with bleach to prevent contaminating your next batch of wheat grass. Good ventilation is especially important in hot weather, so sow the seed more thinly.
