Chia (Salvia hispanica). Annual. Cha-cha-cha- CHIA! CHIA! If you remember that commercial for chia pets, you are approaching "vintage" status. I have to admit to have never owning one. But, after having worked in a health food store for two years, I found this seed to be a very nutritious and helpful seed indeed. I first learned of it when a woman with diverticulosis came in and told me that she took this seed with oat bran and it allowed her to eat anything she wanted without a problem. I tried it and found the same result. I started looking into the other benefits of this seed. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans in central America and the southern US and Mexico as a nutritious food source. One tablespoon chewed was supposed to give one energy for a full days work. I'm not sure if it does that for me, but it is full of protein, twice as much as other grains. It's rich in Omega 3, soluable fiber, and I've seen reference that it stablizes blood sugar levels because it slows down the conversion of starch to sugar. I did not see reference as to how it did that, but it's an interesting property.
What is offered is 100 seeds to grow some for yourself. Nearly 100% germination. Sow the seed indoors for an early start about a month ahead of putting them out. Sprinkle the seeds on the surface of moist, sterile seed starting medium and cover lightly with moist media. Room temperature is fine but will take a little longer to germinate. Mine had around 75 degree warmth. When it's time to put them out, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. They want full sun, well drained soil, not to ever be soggy. It doesn't require much water. It will grow between 2-3' and have blue flowers. Harvest the seeds when the blossoms turn dry and tan by whacking the cut plants against a wall with something underneath to catch the seed.
What is offered is 100 seeds to grow some for yourself. Nearly 100% germination. Sow the seed indoors for an early start about a month ahead of putting them out. Sprinkle the seeds on the surface of moist, sterile seed starting medium and cover lightly with moist media. Room temperature is fine but will take a little longer to germinate. Mine had around 75 degree warmth. When it's time to put them out, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. They want full sun, well drained soil, not to ever be soggy. It doesn't require much water. It will grow between 2-3' and have blue flowers. Harvest the seeds when the blossoms turn dry and tan by whacking the cut plants against a wall with something underneath to catch the seed.
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