Growing Seeds (Sabzeh) For Nowruz (Persian New Year)

This year's Persian New Year (Nowruz) falls on March 20th, therefore along with the spring cleaning we need to start growing our own سبزه  "Sabzeh" wheat sprout which symbolizes revival and rebirth. Besides wheat, which is the most common and popular seed to grow, you may also grow barley, lentils and mung beans. Sabzeh is one of the seven items on the haft-seen table that starts with the letter (S).

Below are some simple directions on how to grow sabzeh, as was taught to me by my mother:

1. Depending on the size of your display dish, take a cup or two of the seeds of your choice.
2. Rinse under cool water and place in a large enough bowl, cover with cool water, and soak for 2-3 days. Be sure to change the water a couple of times a day.
3. Drain the seeds and place them in a moist cheesecloth. Place the cheesecloth in a deep dish, this would keep the seeds and the moisture together until the seeds start to germinate. Place the dish on a sunny windowsill.
4. Keep the seeds moist by sprinkling/spraying water on them when needed.
5. If the seeds are of good quality and there's ample sunlight, it won't take long for the seeds to sprout.
6. Remove the cloth and place the newly germinated seeds in the desired dish.
7. Change the water twice a day and discard the extra water.
8. You may tie a red ribbon around the grass and place it on your haft seen table!

Happy Spring!