Cat grass offers a safe and beneficial green snack for pets, aiding digestion and providing mental stimulation. Growing your own cat grass from harvested seeds provides a continuous supply, promoting self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on store-bought options. This sustainable practice offers a cost-effective way to maintain this valuable plant in your home.
Recognizing Seed Maturity
Recognizing the correct time to harvest cat grass seeds is key. Seed heads transform from green to a golden or brown hue. They also begin to dry out and become brittle to the touch. This indicates the seeds inside have fully matured. When gently squeezed, mature seeds feel firm, confirming their ripeness.
Harvesting the Seeds
Once cat grass seed heads mature, begin collection. Use clean scissors or pruning shears to snip off the dry seed heads close to the top of the blades. Collect the severed heads in a small container or open envelope, being gentle to prevent premature scattering. Alternatively, gently shake dried stalks over a clean surface, or rub the seed heads between your hands to release seeds into a collection vessel.
Preparing Seeds for Storage
After harvesting, prepare cat grass seeds for storage to maintain viability and prevent mold. Spread collected seed heads thinly on a sheet, clean tarp, or fine mesh screen for thorough air circulation. Dry them in a room with consistent, moderate temperatures and low humidity.
Ensure seeds are completely dry; test by pressing a fingernail into a seed, which should offer resistance and leave no mark. Once dry, separate seeds from plant debris, known as chaff. This can be done by winnowing with gentle airflow to blow away lighter chaff, or by sifting the seed lot through a sieve.
Storing Harvested Cat Grass Seeds
Proper storage preserves the viability of harvested cat grass seeds for future planting. Place thoroughly dried and cleaned seeds into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or sealed paper envelope. Store these in a cool, dark location where temperatures do not exceed 21°C (70°F) and humidity remains below 65%. An ideal range is 2-4°C (35-40°F) with humidity under 40%. Under these conditions, seeds can germinate for several years, ensuring a continuous supply.