Sprouting 101 – A Beginner’s Guide to Sprouts

What Is Sprouting? (And Why It Matters)


Did you know that sprouts, although tiny, provide huge health benefits? Sprouts can improve the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins, promote gut health, and reduce intestinal gas. Sprouted seeds and greens also have more vitamin C, B vitamins, and antioxidants.


That’s why today we’re sharing some simple-to-follow tips for those starting their sprouting journey!

Plant sprouts in glass vases


Here is what you need to get started:

  • A wide mouth Mason jar and a fitted screen lid
  • Organic seeds, pulses, or beans developed for sprouting
  • Clean water – filtered or spring (not reverse osmosis)


Legumes in a bowl

Once you’ve gathered up your materials, it’s time to get started!


Clean your sprouting equipment in warm, soapy water. If you want to sanitize add 30 drops of grapefruit seed extract to 500 ml of water.  Spray your equipment and don’t rinse. You can use the spray to bump up the nutrition of your sprouts as well!


For each jar use 2 teaspoons of seeds, pulses, or beans.  You can adjust the amount once you become familiar with the sprouting habits of each type of seed.


Soak seeds for 1-2 hours.  Soak broccoli overnight.  Soak beans and pulses overnight.  Because sprouting significantly increases the nutritional value of beans you can sprout them for 1 or 2 days before cooking, otherwise they can be sprouted into a microgreen and eaten raw.


Set jars in a diagonal position out of direct sunlight as shown below.  This allows air to circulate.


Rinse and drain two or three times daily to keep them hydrated. If sprouts are not getting enough water they may develop air roots, often mistaken for mold. Roots flatten once sprouts are rinsed, and you can add another rinse during the day. 


When sprouts have reached the desired size, usually in 5 – 7 days, store them in an airtight container in your fridge.  Enjoy!


Various product bags at Jo Anne's Place

Sprouts make a nutritious addition to any meal. Try topping your favourite salad with them, adding them to a delicious wrap, or using them to garnish your morning avocado toast!


All sprouting materials – from mason jars to seeds – are available at any Jo Anne’s Place location.


Used our tips or ingredients? Tag us on Instagram @joannesplace – We’d love to share your progress!



Jo Anne's Place Staff

We have been supporting the wellness of our communities since 1976.


Our highly trained staff are here to help. Our Product Educators have vast knowledge and experience with the products we carry in our stores - whether they take them themselves, have taken brand training, or have received feedback from customers. 


Please visit one of our stores to chat with them about we can help support you and get you feeling your best!

Store Hours
By Jonathan Tessier November 4, 2025
Delicious Cranberry Scones -- Easy to Make!
By Jonathan Tessier November 4, 2025
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
By Brad Wood November 4, 2025
Easy-To-Make Holiday Spice Chia Coconut Pudding
By April Allen October 30, 2025
Packed with vitamins A and C, fibre, and antioxidants, autumn squashes are a true gift from nature that can help support immune health, glowing skin, and sustainable nutrition through the colder months. From the sweet nuttiness of acorn and butternut to the rich, velvety texture of kabocha and spaghetti squashes, each variety offers its own unique flavour profile and nutritional benefits. Here are 4 delicious takes on squash: Roasted Acorn Squash, Traditional Kabocha Croquettes, Butternut Squash Pizza, and Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. Also be sure to check out more of our Butternut Squash Soup and Stuffed Acorn Squash recipes.
By April Allen October 30, 2025
Don't get us wrong, Pumpkin Spiced Lattes are delicious. But, there are tons of other fall flavours that get forgotten this time of year. And as Canadians, we simply cannot let maple syrup get overlooked! So, we're sharing a festive fall Salted Maple Cinnamon Latte recipe that you can enjoy both hot and iced - die-hard iced coffee drinkers no matter the season, we see you! Maple syrup and cinnamon are both sources of antioxidants that help your body fight inflammation. Maple syrup also contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids! Enjoy the benefits of these delicious ingredients in this simple and cozy drink!
By April Allen October 27, 2025
Soup season is upon us! As the days grow colder, there's few things as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. We're sharing two of our favourite nourishing classics - Cream of Broccoli and Cream of Carrot. Made with super simple, whole food ingredients, these recipes are easy to prepare and packed with nourishing veggies and warming spices. Grab your pot and let's get simmering!
Halloween decorations on the side. Text reads: Healthy Halloween Recipes
By Jonathan Tessier October 15, 2025
Halloween is coming up quick! This year, Halloween is on a Friday, which means lots of fun!
By Jonathan Tessier October 1, 2025
This year, Thanksgiving weekend is from Friday, October 10th to Monday, October 13th. Canadian Thanksgiving is always celebrated on the second Monday of October.
By April Allen September 30, 2025
Happy Thanksgiving! Looking to switch it up and try some new recipes this year? Here is a roundup of recipes, many of which are vegan and gluten-free so you can create a holiday meal fit for all!
On the left is an assortment of bowls with food in them, on the right is a person styling their hair
By Jonathan Tessier September 11, 2025
Discover the best foods for hair growth. Boost shine, strength, and thickness naturally with nutrient-rich options that support healthy hair.