We first discovered wheatgrass when we saw Food Matters. It’s a documentary about the importance of real nutrition, where our food comes from and our health. You can actually watch it online for a mere $5, check out the trailer here.
Wheatgrass is considered a super food and, to reap the benefits, you need to juice it. A regular juicer can’t handle the fine blades of grass, so we decided to splurge on one that was specific to the purpose. I found a good deal online and the retailer was located in the prairies, so no having to pay duty. Our only requirement was that it be made of long-lasting cast iron.
Every once in a while, when we’re in the area, we’ll pick up a tray of wheatgrass from Rachel-Bery on Saint-Laurent. It’s actually grown by a local company called Pousse Menu and costs about $15, which includes a $2 deposit on the plastic tray. Let me tell you: walking down the sidewalk with a tray of grass provokes stares and sometimes questions.
When we can’t make it to the store, we grow our own. It’s a very inexpensive, cost-effective option compared to the ready-to-go trays you can buy. A small, 500 gram package of organic wheat grains (aka wheat berries) costs about $3. The only other things you need are something to grow it in, soil, water and something to block the light for the first few days. There are plenty of videos available if you want to learn how to do this.
I personally can’t stand the smell or taste of wheat grass so I stay clear of the kitchen when it’s being cut and juiced. I like to mix the green liquid into smoothies like this one.
We don’t try to do second cuts on wheatgrass, it’s just not worth it. If you vermicompost, your worms will absolutely love the mat of soil, wheatgrass roots and husks. It’s worm food and bedding all in one.
Even if you’re not into the juicing thing, you can grow wheat grass for cats in smaller containers. All of my kitties love it and will swarm a tray, if I let them. Don’t get hustled into buying plastic pots of “cat grass” for crazy-inflated prices.
Aaw I love the photo of the cat eating grass.
Yeah, he’s a sweetie-cutie.