What Is Chia? Plant Species, Origin and Characteristics
Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a plant with a long history, native to Mexico and Guatemala. It’s actually part of the mint family, which also includes herbs like basil, rosemary, sage, oregano, and thyme. Before we get into how to grow chia seeds, let’s see what makes them special.
The chia plant contains high levels of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and other vital nutrients that can give your body a boost. In addition, its gray or brown seeds have a unique gelatinous texture that makes them perfect for adding to foods like smoothies or yogurt.
Some people also grow chia in so-known Chia Pets. These are small clay pots that typically look like animals. The chia sprouts growing in the pot provide a green ‘fur’ or ‘hair’ for the pet. While you can find chia plants in some stores, it’s easy (and fun!) to grow your own at home.
When to Plant Chia Seeds?
The best time to plant chia seeds is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. You can start your seeds indoors about four weeks before you plan to transplant them outdoors. Chia plants grow best in USDA zones 8-11. If you’re going to keep the plant indoors, the exact time doesn’t matter too much, as long as there’s plenty of sunlight.
How to Grow Chia Seeds: Planting and Caring for Your Chia Plant
Now that you know a little more about the plant, let’s see how to grow chia seeds successfully. It’s actually very easy – all you need are some starting seeds, a pot, some soil and some water.
If you’re starting with seeds, sprinkle them over a seed raising mix and cover with a ¼ inch layer of it. Make sure to thin the seedlings out once they start sprouting. Chia plants need full sun, so choose a spot in your house or yard that gets plenty of sunlight.
Water your chia plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. When the plant is about six inches tall, you can start harvesting the leaves and making tea with them. The seeds will be mature and ready for harvest when the plant blooms.
The Best Soil Type for Chia Plants
One of the most important things to remember when learning how to grow chia seeds is that they need well-drained soil. Chia plants are easy to grow, but they’re sensitive to overwatering, so make sure your pot has drainage holes and don’t water more than necessary. A good quality potting mix or seed raising mix will do the trick. Both sandy and clay soils can work.
Harvesting Chia Seeds
To harvest chia seeds, simply cut the seed heads off the plant and dry them in a warm, sunny spot. Once they’re dry, store them in an airtight container. You can use chia seeds in all sorts of recipes, or add them to your smoothie for a nutrient-packed breakfast.
Sprouting Chia Seeds
If you want to sprout your chia seeds, simply soak them in water overnight. In the morning, drain off the water and rinse the seeds. Place them in a sprouting tray or jar, and cover with a damp cloth. Rinse the seeds twice a day, and in about three to five days, you’ll have delicious chia sprouts to add to your salads or sandwiches.
Will Your Chia Plant Produce Seeds Year after Year?
The bad news is that chia is an annual plant, so it will only produce seeds for one growing season. However, the good news is that chia seeds have a very long shelf life, so you can enjoy them long after the plant has died. Once the new season starts, simply start the planting process over again, and you’ll have a fresh batch of chia seeds.
How to Eat Chia Seeds: 10 Easy Uses
Now that you know how to grow chia seeds and harvest them, let’s see how you can add them to your diet. Here are ten easy ways to use chia seeds.
- Add them to smoothies or juices for a nutrient boost.
- Mix them into oatmeal or yogurt.
- Make a healthy chia pudding for breakfast or dessert.
- Add them to salad dressings or sauces.
- Sprinkle them over roasted vegetables.
- Mix them into trail mix or granola.
- Use them as a healthy alternative to breadcrumbs in recipes.
- Make chia energy bars or balls for a pre-workout snack.
- Add them to pancakes, muffins or other baked goods.
- Include them in your favorite dinner recipes for an extra nutritional boost.
As you can see, there are lots of ways to enjoy chia seeds. So get growing, and start incorporating these nutrient-packed little seeds into your diet!
Enjoy the Many Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are not only a delicious and versatile food, but they’re also packed with nutrients. They’re high in fiber, protein, antioxidants and omega-three fatty acids. Studies have shown that they can help improve heart health, lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar levels. Now that you know how to grow chia seeds, it’s time to reap those benefits!
