Results of Germinating a Wheat Seed in Lemon Juice

Removal of Casing for Planting

• When wheat seeds first mature and fall to the ground, they have a protective casing surrounding them. This casing ensures the seed germinates only under the right conditions, including temperature, moisture and the pH of the soil. The casing also protects the seed from being eaten by predators due to the phytic acid, which is a part of the casing. Placing a wheat seed in lemon juice removes this casing from the grain, forcing it to germinate and preparing it to be placed in the soil.

Anti-nutrient Removal

• The phytic acid contained in the wheat seed's casing is considered an anti-nutrient because it disrupts digestion and can cause permanent damage to the digestive tract. By soaking wheat grains in lemon juice, the phytic acid is removed from the grain, rendering it safe to eat. Not only does soaking the grain in lemon juice remove anti-nutrients, it promotes positive bacteria growth on the grain and releases enzymes that were previously unavailable.

Soaking Grains

• Soaking wheat grains in lemon juice either for consumption or planting involves the same process. Simply add equal parts grain and water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for each cup of water. Allow the seeds to soak for 7 to 12 hours. After soaking, the seeds are ready for you to consume. If you plant the seeds that have been soaked, you will see visible germination results in a few days.

Alternatives

• You can soak wheat seeds in warm water only to promote germination. However, high acidity levels help in the breakdown of the casing. Other acidic substances such as vinegar, kefir or yogurt can be added to water instead of lemon juice as an alternative. If you plan to plant the seeds at a later time instead of placing them in the ground immediately, you may lay them between two layers of paper towels to help encourage sprouting before planting.