How to Grow Wheatgrass Microgreens: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Wheatgrass is one of the easiest larger-seeded microgreens to grow at home. With a little preparation, wheat seed can produce a dense tray of fresh green shoots in approximately 7–12 days.

If you are learning how to grow wheatgrass microgreens, the main difference compared with small-seeded crops such as broccoli or mustard is that wheatgrass seed should be soaked before planting. Pre-sprouting the grain before sowing can also help establish a more even crop.

Wheatgrass can be grown indoors using soil, coco coir, hemp growing mats or other suitable microgreen growing media. It develops upright, grass-like leaves with a fresh, mildly sweet and grassy flavour.

This guide explains how to grow wheatgrass from seed, including soaking, pre-sprouting, sowing, covered germination, watering, light, harvesting and preventing common mould problems.

Wheatgrass Microgreens at a Glance

What Is Wheatgrass?

Wheatgrass is the young green shoot produced from germinated wheat grain. It is harvested while the leaves are still tender and before the wheat plant develops into a mature cereal crop.

Unlike small-seeded microgreens such as broccoli, kale and mustard, wheat is a relatively large grain. The seeds are normally soaked and partially sprouted before they are spread across the growing medium.

Once established, wheatgrass forms a dense upright canopy of narrow green leaves. It can be grown in soil or using suitable hydroponic growing mats.

Why Grow Wheatgrass Microgreens?

How to Grow Wheatgrass in 8 Simple Steps

1. Soak the wheat seed. Cover the seed with plenty of clean water and soak for approximately 6–10 hours.
2. Drain and pre-sprout. Rinse thoroughly, drain and leave the seed in a sprouting jar, bag or suitable sprouter until a small white root begins to appear.
3. Prepare your tray. Add moist soil or coco coir, or thoroughly moisten a suitable growing mat.
4. Sow evenly. Spread the pre-sprouted wheat across the surface in a dense but reasonably even layer.
5. Cover the tray. Keep the crop covered and away from strong light during early establishment.
6. Move into light. Once the shoots are established and approximately 2–3 cm tall, uncover the tray and provide suitable light.
7. Water carefully. Keep the root zone moist without creating saturated or stagnant conditions.
8. Harvest. Cut the grass cleanly just above the growing medium when it reaches approximately 7–15 cm tall.

What You Need to Grow Wheatgrass

• Wheatgrass Microgreen Seeds
• A shallow growing tray with drainage
• A solid lower tray for bottom watering
• A cover, second tray or clean cloth for germination
• Organic soil, coco coir, hemp mat or another suitable growing medium
• A sprouting jar, sprouting bag or mesh sprouter
• Clean water
• A spray bottle or gentle watering bottle
• Bright natural light or a suitable grow light
• Clean scissors or a harvesting knife

Step 1: Soak the Wheatgrass Seeds

Unlike most small-seeded microgreens, wheatgrass seed should be soaked before sowing.

Place the required amount of seed in a clean container or sprouting jar and cover generously with cool, clean water.

Soak for approximately 6–10 hours.

Warmer conditions generally require less soaking time than cooler conditions. Excessively long soaking can deprive the grain of oxygen and may increase the likelihood of seed deterioration.

After soaking, drain the water completely and rinse the grain thoroughly.

Step 2: Pre-Sprout the Wheat Seeds

Pre-sprouting helps establish the wheat before it is transferred to the growing tray.

After soaking and draining, leave the grain in a sprouting jar, sprouting bag or suitable mesh sprouter.

Keep the seed well drained and rinse periodically with clean water.

The wheat is ready to sow once a small white root or tail has begun to emerge.

A short root of a few millimetres is sufficient. There is no advantage in allowing the grain to develop long tangled roots before planting.

Over-sprouted wheat tends to clump together, making it much harder to distribute evenly across the tray. Dense clumps also retain moisture and can increase mould problems.

Step 3: Prepare the Growing Tray

Wheatgrass can be grown using either soil-based or soilless methods.

Growing Wheatgrass in Soil

Add approximately 2–3 cm of good-quality growing medium to a shallow tray.

A fine-textured organic potting or seed-raising mix works well. Coco coir can also be incorporated or used separately.

Level the surface and moisten it evenly before sowing.

Growing Wheatgrass on Hemp Mats

Wheatgrass can also be grown hydroponically using hemp growing mats.

Moisten the mat thoroughly before sowing, then drain any excess water. The mat should remain damp but should not be submerged beneath standing water.

Growing Wheatgrass Without Soil

Other suitable hydroponic growing mats can also be used.

When growing without soil, moisture management becomes particularly important because there is less growing medium to buffer changes in water availability.

Step 4: Sow the Wheatgrass Seeds

Spread the pre-sprouted seed evenly across the prepared growing surface.

Wheatgrass is normally sown densely, but the seed should still form a reasonably even layer rather than large overlapping piles.

For a 30 × 35 cm tray, approximately 150–200 grams provides a practical starting range. Adjust the amount according to the seed size, tray dimensions and growing conditions.

Commercial growers should test density under their own conditions before standardising a production rate.

Once the grain is spread evenly, mist it gently with clean water.

Step 5: Cover Wheatgrass During Germination

Cover the freshly sown tray with another tray, damp paper, clean hessian or another suitable cover.

Keep the crop away from strong light during the early germination stage.

The objective is to maintain humidity around the germinating grain without creating stagnant, waterlogged conditions.

Wheatgrass commonly remains covered for approximately 2–3 days after sowing, although the seedlings themselves should determine when you uncover the tray.

Once the shoots are well established and approximately 2–3 cm tall, remove the cover.

Step 6: Move Wheatgrass into Light

After the covered germination stage, move the wheatgrass into bright indirect natural light or beneath a suitable grow light.

The newly uncovered shoots may initially look pale or yellow. This is normal.

Once exposed to light, the seedlings begin producing chlorophyll and develop their characteristic green colour.

Avoid exposing young trays to extreme heat or intense afternoon sun, particularly during Australian summer conditions.

Step 7: Water Wheatgrass Carefully

Wheatgrass requires consistent moisture because a dense tray develops a substantial root system and canopy very quickly.

However, excessive water is one of the most common causes of poor wheatgrass crops.

Keep the growing medium moist but avoid:

• Standing water
• Permanently saturated growing mats
• Water pooling around the grain
• Keeping the foliage continuously wet
• Poorly ventilated growing areas

Once roots have established through the growing medium, bottom watering can be useful.

Add a small amount of water to the solid lower tray and allow the growing medium to absorb it through the drainage holes.

Check the crop before watering rather than automatically watering according to a fixed timetable.

Step 8: When to Harvest Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is commonly ready for harvest approximately 7–12 days after sowing.

The exact timing depends on temperature, light, growing medium and the stage at which you prefer to harvest.

A useful visual guide is when the shoots are approximately 7–15 cm tall, green, upright and well established.

Use clean scissors or a sharp harvesting knife and cut the wheatgrass approximately 1 cm above the growing medium.

Avoid cutting into the growing medium, as this can introduce soil, root material and debris into your harvest.

What Does Wheatgrass Taste Like?

Fresh wheatgrass has a distinctive green, grassy flavour with a mildly sweet character.

Because its flavour is much stronger than tender salad microgreens such as broccoli or cabbage, wheatgrass is used differently from most microgreens.

It is commonly grown for fresh wheatgrass juice or blended in small quantities with other ingredients.

How to Use Fresh Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is most commonly harvested for juicing.

Freshly cut wheatgrass can be used:

• For fresh wheatgrass juice
• In smoothies where suitable equipment is used
• Combined with ingredients such as lemon, ginger or mint
• As part of mixed cereal-grass production

Wheatgrass leaves are fibrous compared with conventional salad microgreens, so they are not generally eaten whole in the same way as radish, broccoli or mizuna microgreens.

Wheatgrass vs Other Microgreens

Can Wheatgrass Be Grown Without Soil?

Yes. Wheatgrass grows well using suitable hydroponic growing mats such as hemp mats.

The seed contains substantial stored energy to support early seedling development, allowing wheatgrass to establish without conventional soil.

When using a growing mat, keep it consistently moist but not submerged.

Good drainage and ventilation are particularly important because dense wheatgrass roots can retain substantial moisture.

Why Does Wheatgrass Develop Mould?

Mould is one of the most common problems encountered when growing wheatgrass.

Wheatgrass is particularly susceptible because the large grain is sown densely and remains moist while germinating.

Problems are more likely when several factors occur together:

• Seed is sown too densely
• Pre-sprouted seed develops long tangled roots before sowing
• Growing media remain saturated
• Water pools underneath the tray
• Ventilation is poor
• Temperature and humidity are high
• Equipment is not cleaned properly between crops

The best approach is prevention rather than trying to rescue a badly affected tray.

How to Reduce Mould When Growing Wheatgrass

• Use clean trays. Thoroughly clean growing equipment between crops.
• Drain soaked seed properly. Do not leave the grain sitting in water.
• Do not over-sprout. Sow when only a small root has emerged.
• Avoid excessive seed density. Very thick piles of grain restrict airflow.
• Keep the growing medium moist, not saturated.
• Provide good airflow. This becomes increasingly important after uncovering.
• Bottom water where practical. Avoid repeatedly soaking established foliage.
• Remove standing water. Do not allow trays or mats to sit continuously in deep water.

Growing Wheatgrass in Brisbane and Humid Climates

Wheatgrass can be more difficult to grow during warm, humid weather than during cooler months.

This is particularly relevant in Brisbane and other humid subtropical parts of Australia.

Warm temperatures accelerate germination and plant growth, but high humidity also slows evaporation. A densely seeded wheatgrass tray can therefore remain wet for too long, increasing the likelihood of mould.

During warm and humid weather:

• Use slightly shorter soaking periods if the grain hydrates quickly.
• Do not allow pre-sprouted seeds to develop long roots before sowing.
• Avoid excessive sowing density.
• Use clean, well-drained trays.
• Provide strong but gentle airflow around the crop.
• Avoid constantly wet foliage.
• Check the medium before adding more water.
• Keep trays away from intense afternoon heat.

Common Wheatgrass Growing Problems

Wheatgrass Seeds Are Not Germinating Evenly

Uneven germination can result from inconsistent soaking, dry patches, poor seed-to-medium contact or uneven seed distribution.

Soak the entire batch evenly, drain thoroughly and distribute the pre-sprouted seed consistently across the tray.

Wheatgrass Seeds Smell Sour

A strong sour or unpleasant smell can indicate that the seed remained too wet or that microbial deterioration has begun.

Discard severely affected batches rather than planting them.

For future crops, reduce prolonged soaking, rinse thoroughly and make sure the grain drains properly between rinses.

White Fuzz Around Wheatgrass Roots

Fine root hairs can sometimes be mistaken for mould.

Root hairs generally occur directly around individual roots and appear relatively evenly distributed. They may become much less visible immediately after watering.

Mould tends to spread irregularly between grains, across the growing medium or over plant material.

Wheatgrass Is Yellow After Uncovering

Pale yellow shoots are normal immediately after covered germination.

The seedlings have developed without light and have not yet produced their full green colour.

Once exposed to adequate light, healthy wheatgrass should become progressively greener.

Wheatgrass Is Falling Over

Falling or weak wheatgrass may result from insufficient light, excessive height, dehydration, root problems or overly wet growing conditions.

Inspect the root zone before adding more water and ensure the crop receives adequate light and airflow.

Wheatgrass Has Brown Tips

Brown leaf tips can be associated with inconsistent watering, excessive heat, ageing plants or environmental stress.

Keep moisture reasonably consistent and harvest the crop while the leaves are still young and tender.

Can Wheatgrass Regrow After Harvesting?

Wheatgrass can sometimes produce some regrowth after the first harvest because the growing point may remain close to the base of the plant.

However, the second crop is usually less uniform and may not match the quality or yield of the first cut.

For reliable microgreen production, many growers prefer to start a fresh tray from new seed after the first harvest.

Can Wheatgrass Be Grown Indoors?

Yes. Wheatgrass is well suited to indoor production provided it receives adequate light and airflow after germination.

A bright windowsill can work for small crops, provided the tray is protected from intense heat.

For more consistent production, particularly during winter or in areas with limited natural light, a suitable grow light can be used.

For more information about trays, lighting, blackout, watering and growing media, see Seedmart’s complete guide to growing microgreens in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does wheatgrass take to grow?

Wheatgrass is commonly ready to harvest approximately 7–12 days after sowing, depending on temperature, light, moisture and the preferred harvest stage.

Do wheatgrass seeds need to be soaked?

Yes. Soaking for approximately 6–10 hours before pre-sprouting and sowing helps hydrate the large wheat grain and encourages more uniform germination.

Should I sprout wheatgrass seeds before planting?

Pre-sprouting is recommended. After soaking, rinse and drain the seed until a small white root begins to emerge. Sow before the roots become long and tangled.

How much wheatgrass seed should I use per tray?

Approximately 150–200 grams per 30 × 35 cm tray provides a useful starting range. Adjust the quantity according to tray size, seed size and your growing conditions.

How long should wheatgrass remain covered?

Wheatgrass is commonly covered for approximately 2–3 days after sowing. Uncover when the shoots are established and approximately 2–3 cm tall rather than relying entirely on a fixed number of days.

Can wheatgrass be grown without soil?

Yes. Wheatgrass can be grown using hemp mats and other suitable hydroponic growing media. Keep the growing mat moist without leaving it saturated or submerged in standing water.

How tall should wheatgrass be before harvesting?

Wheatgrass is commonly harvested when approximately 7–15 cm tall. Harvest timing can be adjusted according to the tenderness, appearance and flavour you prefer.

Why is my wheatgrass mouldy?

Dense sowing, excess water, long tangled pre-sprouted roots, poor drainage, warm temperatures and inadequate ventilation can all contribute to mould problems.

Is white fuzz on wheatgrass always mould?

No. Fine white root hairs can look similar to mould. Root hairs normally grow directly around healthy roots, while mould tends to spread irregularly between seeds and across plant material.

Can wheatgrass grow in summer?

Yes, but hot and humid conditions can make moisture and mould management more difficult. Good ventilation, careful watering and avoiding excessive seed density are particularly important during warm weather.

Can wheatgrass regrow after cutting?

Some regrowth can occur after the first harvest, but subsequent growth is often less uniform. Starting a fresh tray generally gives a more consistent crop.

What does wheatgrass taste like?

Fresh wheatgrass has a strong green, grassy flavour with a mildly sweet character.

Where can I buy wheatgrass microgreen seeds in Australia?

Seedmart supplies Wheatgrass Microgreen Seeds in packet and bulk quantities for home and commercial growers throughout Australia.

Learning how to grow wheatgrass microgreens is straightforward once you understand the importance of soaking, pre-sprouting and moisture management.

Soak the wheat grain for approximately 6–10 hours, drain and pre-sprout until a small white root appears, then spread it evenly over moist growing media. Keep the crop covered during early establishment, introduce it to light once the shoots are established and harvest at approximately 7–15 cm tall.

Wheatgrass grows quickly, but dense seed and warm, humid conditions can increase the risk of mould. Clean equipment, thorough drainage, appropriate sowing density and good airflow are therefore particularly important.