Sprouts, the new growth from a germinated seed, may be tiny, but they're loaded with nutrients. In fact, they even have a higher concentration of Vitamin C and other antioxidants than mature plants! You can easily grow your own sprouts to use in salads, on sandwiches, and in stir-fries with a sprout kit. Take a look at these different sprout growing kits to learn which one will work the best for your needs.
FreshLife Automatic sprouter
Growing sprouts is easy, but this automatic system, available from Tribest, makes it even simpler. The electric sprouter has an automatic sprinkling system that delivers fresh water when needed to the sprouts.
Advantages of This Kit
There are a couple of reasons this may be the kit for you:
- The sprinkler system mimimizes the chance for sprouts to mold or rot.
- As a countertop sprouter, it's more attractive than some of the others on the market.
Disadvantages of This Kit
According to reviews on Amazon.com, users had a few complaints about this kit:
- At around, $113, this product is expensive.
- This kit requires the use of electricity.
- You still need to change the water daily.
- Some users have complained that the machine is noisy and the tubes get clogged.
Deluxe Sprout Growing Kit
A perfect starting point for sprout lovers, this kit has everything you need to grow a wide variety of sprouts. Twelve one-pound bags of certified organic seeds are included, from traditional varieties like alfalfa and mung beans to more unusual types like green lentil and adzuki beans. The three-tray stackable sprouter system allows you to grow three different kinds of sprouts at once. It comes with a detailed instruction booklet. You can buy it from Handy Pantry.
Advantages of This Kit
Here are the reasons you'll appreciate this full-featured kit:
- The stacking system can be expanded to include more growing trays, and it doesn't take up too much space on your countertop.
- The assortment of sprouts will give you a nice variety so that you can learn which types are your favorites.
Disadvantages of This Kit
The drawbacks of this kit are as follows:
- At $80, it's on the pricey side.
- For something that's supposed to sit out on your counter, it could be a little more attractive.
Victorio 4-Tray Seed sprouter
Grow up to four different kinds of sprouts in the six-inch trays of this BPA-free sprouter from Victorio Kitchen Products. An innovative design ensures that just the right amount of water is dispersed for each stage of the growing cycle. It comes with a one-ounce package organic alfalfa seeds.
Advantages of This Kit
Here's what you'll like about the 4-tray sprouter:
- At just 8.25 inches tall and six inches wide, this compact sprouter fits easily in a cabinet.
- At under $20 it's an affordable option for those who want to grow multiple types of sprouts at once.
Disadvantages of This Kit
Amazon.com users say there are a few flaws in the design:
- The levels of the sprouter don't always drain completely, causing the sprouts to mold.
- The drip system gets clogged easily.
Sproutman's Hemp Growing Bag
Nothing could be simpler: just put seeds in this chemical-free hemp bag, dip it in water, and hang on a hook. The bag can sow as little as a quarter cup of seeds or as much as two cups, and it expands or contracts to fit the quantity. You can order it from Sproutman.
Advantages of This Kit
Wondering if the Hemp Growing Bag is your bag? Here's why it might be:
- This is an inexpensive option; it's only around $13.
- The bag system is compact and portable and can even be packed for camping or RV.
- Because the water can come out of the container from all directions, it drains better than many other systems.
Disadvantages of This Kit
These are the reasons this option might not be for you.
- You can only grow one batch at once, unless you either want your sprouts mixed or buy multiple bags.
- You'll have to find or install a hook for it to hang from.
Sprouting Jar
The classic sprouting tool, this one-quart glass jar has a plastic straining lid and instructions printed right on the water-resistant label. Just rinse it with fresh water daily and store it in a dark place. Handy Pantry sells it, along with a one-gallon size.
Advantages of This Kit
Here's what you'll like about this simple sprouter:
- At about $12, it's one of the cheapest systems available. You can even just buy a straining lid that will fit on any mason jar.
- It is great for a beginner or someone who only makes sprouts on occasion.
Disadvantages of This Kit
There are a couple of reasons this system might not be for you:
- It doesn't make a large quantity. However, you can buy multiple jars to make different varieties at once or to have several jars going at once at various stages of germination.
- The glass is clear, rather than opaque like some other sprouters, which means you'll have to find a dark place in which to keep it.
Choosing the Right sprouter
With options that range from automated to basic, you're sure to be able to find a sprouter that fits your needs and budget. By considering how often you'll use it, the quantity of sprouts that you'll want to make at once, and where you'll be keeping it, you can choose a sprouter that perfectly suits your lifestyle.
