Most people prefer growing sprouts in stacking trays because you can grow more in a small amount of space. In other words, your garden doesn’t overtake your kitchen counter. However, most growing kits are made of plastic – can you get stainless steel sprouting trays? Why, yes!
As expected, stainless steel costs more than plastic. (We’d question it if it didn’t, right?)
That said, we save so much money growing our own greens at home that this extra cost doesn’t even matter in the long run. For example, each tray of broccoli sprouts that we grow saves us about $5 (if not more).
Therefore, we can easily save $60 over a 3 month period versus buying fresh sprouts at the grocery store. And that’s if we only grow one tray of sprouts per week.
In comparison, a stainless steel seed sprouter costs about $40-45 more than a cheap plastic tray kit. However, they last longer, look nicer and, well, are not made of plastic. =)
Growing Sprouts in Stainless Steel VS Glass Jars?
Sprouting greens in a glass mason jar typically costs less than buying trays, especially if you have some on hand at home. Plus, you can avoid using plastic.
However, glass jars don’t have a mesh bottom. Therefore, they don’t provide optimal drainage or air flow. These 2 factors can greatly affect the success of your sprouts.
Note: Personally, I have found that sprouting seeds in glass jars requires more attention and maintenance to prevent stagnant water and mold growth. In other words, you have to rinse the seeds more often and make sure they don’t get too much sunlight.
On top of that, you need to watch that the jar temperature doesn’t get too warm. A moist environment that stays warm for too long can result in rot. Then, your harvest gets ruined. =(
That’s why many people upgrade to growing trays after they have tried using mason jars. In addition to growing more broccoli sprouts at once, you don’t have to babysit them as much.
As you can see in the photo below, the top tray features a fine mesh base. As a result, excess water can drain through while the seeds stay in the top tray.
Specs for Stainless Steel Sprouting Trays:
- Set Includes Mesh Growing Tray, Base Tray & Matching Top Lid
- Dimensions: 8.7″ Diameter x 4.7″ Tall
- Weight: Approximately 2 lbs
- Material: Premium Food Grade 304 Polished Stainless Steel
- Dishwasher Safe
- Kit Includes Instructions for Germinating Sprouts.
- Get the Tray Set Here
Is a Stainless Steel Sprouting Tray Worth the Money?
When I started growing broccoli sprouts, I realized one big advantage. I had raw, organic greens conveniently available year round in my kitchen.
Consequently, I started making salads and sprout sandwiches more often. And in turn, I incorporated a lot more greens into my diet without much effort. For this reason, I would say that a stainless steel sprouter provides a lot more value than its cost.
By the way, sprouts contain a lot of nutrition. Not to mention, in raw form they provide enzymes and chlorophyll that many other vegetables can’t give you.
