How to germinate wheat seeds کاشت سبزه

The most delightfully treasured traditions around the festival of Spring Equinox, Norouz, is growing wheat, barley, lentil, or bean seeds. One of many family values in Persia, growing wheat or Sabzeh is in harmony with nature on a small and personal level and provides a learning experience for the young. In order to have a beautiful and green sprouted seeds bundle, careful planning is required. It is, however, a very simple process. Here is how:

Start planning Sabzeh almost three weeks before Norouz, first day of spring. Soak a few small cupfuls of your favorite seeds in cold water for two days, making sure water stands above the seeds for a couple of inches. Next, spread the seeds on a flat plate and leave a wet cloth over the seeds for another two days so that the cloth covers all the seeds and keeps them moist. Finally, remove the cloth and place the plate of seeds in a somewhat sunny or moderately warm room, sprinkling water on the seeds every day. After about 10 to 14 days, the seeds grow into tall and green sprouts.

Avoid overwatering; it will make the roots moldy and will rot the sprouts. Also, avoid too much exposure to direct sun; it will wither the sprouts too quickly. You may need to trim the sprouts with small scissors to make the green shoots uniform and tidy.

Tie a pretty colored ribbon around the base of the sprouts to cover the roots and give the Sabzeh the look of a nice bouquet. Place the Sabzeh on Norouz table and keep taking care of it as usual until the 13th day picnic. On the last day of Norouz festivities, 13th day picnic, gently throw the Sabzeh out and make wishes for a very joyful and green year.