Wheatgrass has become a favorite among wellness lovers for one big reason — it packs an impressive amount of fresh, green goodness into every tiny blade. Many people call it “Liquid Sunshine,” and growing your own supply at home is easier than you might think.

If you enjoy wheatgrass shots or want a steady weekly harvest, growing it yourself is affordable, fun, and surprisingly simple. You can even choose between growing it in soil or using a soil-free (hydroponic) method. Below is a complete step-by-step guide for both options.

Growing Wheatgrass Without Soil (Hydroponic Method)

Hydroponics is the process of growing plants in water instead of soil. While wheatgrass grown this way still offers plenty of vitamins, minerals may be lower unless nutrients are added to the water.

This method works well if you prefer a cleaner, soil-free process — but if you’re growing wheatgrass specifically for juicing, most people get better results with soil.

What You Need for Hydroponic Wheatgrass

1. Organic Wheatgrass Seeds

Choose organic, non-GMO “hard red winter wheat” seeds. They store well and sprout reliably. Keep them in a cool, dry place — the fridge or freezer extends shelf life.

2. Sprouting Trays with Small Holes

Use BPA-free trays with fine drainage holes. These work well for wheat, mung beans, alfalfa, and other sprouting seeds.

Step-by-Step: How to Grow Wheatgrass Hydroponically

Step 1: Pre-Sprouting the Seeds

Pre-sprouting helps your wheatgrass grow evenly and quickly.

1. Measure enough seeds to form one layer in your tray.
2. Rinse and place them in a bowl of cool water (2–3× more water than seeds).
3. Soak for 8–10 hours.
4. Drain and soak again for another 8–10 hours.
5. Repeat one more time.
6. When tiny white roots appear (⅛–¼ inch), the seeds are ready.

Step 2: Preparing the Tray

Spread the sprouted seeds in a single, dense layer. Place the sprouting tray over a bottom tray to catch water.
Put the tray near indirect sunlight — wheatgrass prefers gentle light, not heat.

Step 3: Watering

Mist lightly once or twice a day. Keep the seeds moist but never waterlogged.

Step 4: Harvesting

Harvest the same way as soil-grown wheatgrass (instructions below).

How to Grow Wheatgrass in Soil (Recommended for Juicing)

Growing wheatgrass in soil helps the plant absorb natural minerals and results in stronger growth, better flavor, and better juice yield.

Supplies Needed

1. Organic Wheatgrass Seeds

Same as above: organic, non-GMO, hard red winter wheat.

2. Organic Potting Soil

Use a loose, chemical-free potting mix. Dense garden soil can prevent proper sprouting.

3. Plastic Growing Trays

A standard 21” × 11” × 2” tray produces around 14–18 ounces of wheatgrass juice per crop.

4. Spray Bottle

A spray bottle helps maintain moisture without overwatering.

Step-by-Step: Growing Wheatgrass in Soil

Step 1: Pre-Sprouting

Use the same 3-cycle soaking and draining method described above. Pre-sprouting ensures even, fast growth.

Step 2: Prepare the Tray

1. Line the bottom with unbleached paper towels (keeps roots from poking through).
2. Add 1.5 inches of pre-moistened potting mix or compost.
3. Smooth the soil so the seeds can rest evenly on top.

Step 3: Planting

Spread your sprouted seeds in one dense layer. Gently press them into the soil.
Place the tray near indirect sunlight — bright but not hot.

Step 4: Watering

• Mist twice daily for the first few days.
• Cover the tray with damp newspaper to keep humidity consistent until the sprouts reach 1 inch.
• After day 5, switch to once-a-day watering.
• Keep soil damp, not soaked.
• If mold appears (common in warm climates), simply cut above the affected area.

Step 5: Harvesting

Wheatgrass is ready when it reaches about 6 inches tall — usually around day 9–10.

To harvest:

• Cut the blades just above the seed line using scissors.
• Use immediately for juicing to maintain freshness.

A single tray typically lasts a full week if you drink one shot daily.

You can water the tray again for a second harvest, although the second batch may be thinner and less flavorful.

Step 6: How to Juice Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is very fibrous, so you’ll need a:

• Wheatgrass juicer
  or
• Slow masticating juicer

Centrifugal juicers do not work well — they clog easily and waste most of the grass.

How to Reduce or Prevent Mold

Mold is common in warm or humid weather, but these tips help:

• Soak seeds slightly longer (10–12 hours) for better germination.
• Spread seeds in one layer with no overlapping.
• Never overwater — mist lightly.
• Keep sprouts covered with damp paper towels until they root.
• Place a fan nearby during humid days.
• Water from the bottom instead of the top once roots form.

With a few adjustments, your trays will become mold-free and strong.

Growing Wheatgrass for Cats

Cats often chew grass instinctively. Wheatgrass is a safe, non-toxic option.

Even though cats can’t digest the blades fully, chewing may help:

• Move hairballs through the digestive system
• Encourage natural elimination
• Provide chlorophyll-rich greens

If growing wheatgrass specifically for your pets, you can use the hydroponic method or soil — both are fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does wheatgrass take to grow?

About 2 days for seeds to sprout, and 9–10 more days until it reaches harvest height.

Does wheatgrass need sunlight?

Yes — but indirect sunlight. Avoid direct heat or harsh mid-day rays.

Can humans eat raw wheatgrass?

No. Wheatgrass is too fibrous to chew or digest. It’s meant to be juiced.

Can I regrow wheatgrass after cutting it?

Yes, but the second harvest is usually thinner and less nutrient-dense.