Job’s Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi), also known as Adlay or Chinese Pearl Barley, is a distinctive grain-bearing plant in the grass family. This tall, annual or perennial grass, originating from Southeast Asia, is recognized for its unique, tear-shaped seeds encased in hard, bead-like structures. The plant produces broad leaves, can reach significant heights resembling a corn stalk, and its seeds vary in color from pearly white to dark brown.
Preparing for Planting
Successful cultivation of Job’s Tears begins with proper site selection and seed preparation. This plant thrives in full sun, ideally with four to six hours of direct sunlight daily, though it tolerates partial shade. A warm area, such as near a south-facing wall, can further support its growth.
Job’s Tears adapts to various soil types, performing best in moist, well-drained, sandy loam. A soil pH range between 5.5 and 7.0 is suitable for optimal nutrient absorption. Incorporating organic matter like compost before planting enhances fertility and drainage.
Seeds can be sown directly outdoors after the last frost and when soil temperatures warm to at least 60°F. For an earlier start, seeds may be initiated indoors four to eight weeks before the final frost date. Prior to planting, nicking the hard seed coat and soaking seeds in warm water overnight improves germination rates.
When direct sowing, place seeds one to two inches deep and four to six inches apart within rows. Rows should be spaced two to three feet apart to allow for mature plant size. For indoor-started seedlings, provide 10 to 12 inches between plants once hardened off and ready for outdoor conditions.
Ongoing Care
Consistent moisture is important for Job’s Tears, especially during dry periods. The plant prefers moist soil, benefiting from about one inch of water per week from rainfall or irrigation. While it can withstand brief dry spells, regular watering promotes robust development.
Fertilization is not always necessary, particularly if the soil was amended with compost. However, an occasional application of a balanced fertilizer can support vigorous growth. Applying organic mulch, such as shredded leaves, helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Maintaining a weed-free area is important, as weeds compete for water and nutrients. Regularly hoeing around young seedlings controls unwanted vegetation. Job’s Tears is generally resilient, but monitoring for common garden pests like aphids and borers is advisable.
Harvesting and Utilizing Job’s Tears
Job’s Tears seeds are typically ready for harvest three to four months after planting. For culinary uses, harvest when seeds have fully dried on the plant and turned a dark color, from tan-brown to black. If intended for craft beads, harvest them while still green, then allow them to dry.
To harvest, hand-pick mature seeds or cut entire seed heads from the plant and shake the seeds free. After harvesting, spread seeds in a single layer in a dry, well-ventilated area for a few weeks to ensure thorough drying. Once dry, store them in a cool, dry place.
Job’s Tears offers various applications. Soft-shelled varieties are edible and can be cooked like rice, ground into flour, or incorporated into soups and beverages. Hard-shelled varieties are popular for ornamental purposes, frequently used to create decorative beads for necklaces, rosaries, and other crafts due to their natural tear shape and inherent central perforation.
Addressing Common Growing Challenges
Poor germination can occur due to the hard outer coat of Job’s Tears seeds. Pre-treatment methods like scarification and soaking can improve sprouting rates. Under suitable conditions, germination typically takes between two to four weeks.
Slow or stunted growth may indicate insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiencies. Job’s Tears requires ample light; over-shading leads to weak development and reduced seed production. Ensuring adequate moisture and fertile soil can prevent these issues.
A lack of seed production is also linked to inadequate light exposure. The plant needs a drier period as grain heads develop to encourage seed maturation. While generally robust, Job’s Tears can occasionally be affected by pests such as aphids, stem borers, or thrips, which may hinder growth or seed yield.