Wheatgrass is the young, bright green grass of the common wheat plant (Triticum aestivum), harvested just 7 to 10 days after it sprouts. You can grow it yourself on a windowsill for fresh juice, or use wheatgrass powder, which is the dried, milled grass. Here's how to do both.

What does wheatgrass taste like?

Fresh, grassy and slightly sweet, like the smell of a freshly cut lawn. The flavour is strong on its own, so most people mix it with fruit juice.

How to grow wheatgrass at home

1. Soak: soak the seeds in cool water for 8 to 12 hours.
2. Sprout: drain and leave them in the jar for 1 to 2 days, rinsing twice a day, until tiny white roots appear.
3. Sow: spread the sprouted seeds in a single, close layer over a tray of damp compost or a growing mat.
4. Cover: cover with another tray or damp paper for 2 to 3 days while the roots take hold, watering gently each day.
5. Grow: uncover and move to a bright windowsill out of harsh midday sun, keeping the compost moist.
6. Harvest: after 7 to 10 days, when the grass is 15 to 20 cm tall, cut it just above the roots with scissors.

Fresh wheatgrass is fibrous, so you'll need a slow (masticating) juicer or a powerful blender and a sieve to make juice. Cats also love nibbling on a tray of wheatgrass.

How to use wheatgrass powder

Start with a small amount and follow the serving suggestion on your pack.

• Wheatgrass shot: shake the powder with a small glass of apple or pineapple juice and a squeeze of lemon.
• Green smoothie: blend with banana, mango, spinach and coconut water.
• Juice: stir into orange, apple or carrot juice.
• Dressings and dips: whisk a little into a lemon and olive oil dressing or stir into guacamole.

Does wheatgrass contain gluten?

Gluten is found in the wheat grain, and wheatgrass is harvested as young grass before the grain forms. However, cross-contamination with seeds is possible. If you have coeliac disease or a wheat allergy, check the label and speak to your GP or dietitian before trying it.

Wheatgrass vs barley grass

Both are young cereal grasses with a similar fresh, grassy taste. Barley grass is slightly milder, and many people like to alternate between the two.

Food safety

When growing wheatgrass, use clean trays and fresh water, and throw away any grass that smells musty or shows mould at the base.

Shop our Organic Wheatgrass Seeds to grow your own, or Organic Wheatgrass Powder. Browse more green superfoods.