Wheatgrass Care: Mold Problems

My best friend convinced me to start growing wheatgrass by talking about the health benefits, taste ("you'll get used to it") and joy of growing things yourself. I didn't find out about the mold until I had my own tray on the counter. Almost as soon as it gets growing, the mold in your house will find your wheatgrass and set up shop. I threw out three trays before my friend recommended grapefruit seed extract. It's the best way to get rid of the mold without poisoning your wheatgrass supply.

Where to Get Grapefruit Seed Extract Spray
I was lucky enough to find it at my local health store. They also sell wheatgrass growing kits. They're a great place to start looking, but grapefruit seed extract can be hard to find. If I were you I'd just look online. You can shop prices and delivery time isn't too bad.

Mix It With Water
Fill a spray bottle with two cups of water. Take an eye dropper -- there's usually one in the cap -- and add five to ten drops of grapefruit seed extract. Put the cap on and shake it around.

Spray your Wheatgrass
Spray the soil and the base of the wheatgrass -- where most of the mold grows -- with the grapefruit seed extract solution. Move some of the stalks aside with your hand to make sure you penetrate the middle of the wheatgrass patch. Spray just until the point of runoff and then stop. Re-spray the wheatgrass as needed whenever you spot new spores.

Air Circulation
Grapefruit seed extract is a good start, but air circulation will go a long way to keep the mold from growing back. Keep your wheatgrass near a cracked window. Or, turn a fan on low and aim it at the tray. The air circulation will dry out the wheatgrass and keep the mold from colonizing your food.

Leftovers
The mold will quickly disappear and you'll have a lot of grapefruit extract leftover. According to Dirt Works , you can use the extra as a natural mouthwash, facial cleanser, vegetable wash, toothbrush cleaner or all-purpose detergent.