sprout or germinate on the stove?

[rosewater]

Can I germinate/sprout on the stove on it's lowest setting, even indirectly? (eg. similar to how fondue is heated) Using a thermometer, of course.

[DebB]

Hi rosewater ~ I'm curious what you're wanting to germinate and sprout?

I sprout things like alfalfa, red clover, broccoli, lentils and mung beans so far and have had excellent, 100% success rate sprouting them in mason jars on my counter.

Are you wanting to do something like that? *Ü*

[streetsurfer]

I'm wondering also. I think she/he must be referring to germinating for growing plants-not eating sprouts.

I assume you are not working in a cold environment below 65º-68º.

If you mean sprouting in a jar (for eating) the seeds or beans will create their own small amount of heat and added heat should not necessary. You actually want to cool that generated heat down well during the rinsing to help avoid spoilage and improve the sprouting time.

If you mean sprouting as in germinating in soil for growing, you only need the soil to be around ten degrees above a room temp of 65º-70º. I think that would be hard to regulate on a stove top and prevent overheating. Even over a pilot light alone, I think it would be too hot in the center of your tray and cool at the edges. Maybe not, I've never tried it. The top of a fridge would be a better choice.
They make heat mats with thermostats for starting seeds. Have you considered them? Most seeds germinate well around 78º. Try to duplicate the soil temps that the item would normally be planted in. Early spring plantings-cooler, late spring or summer-to the warmer side. Too much heat (say above 90º) can hurt germination rates. Too cool slows down germination.

I hope this helps. If you had something different in mind, let us know.

[Revvell]

I dunno, try it. Not sure why you'd want to though.

[T-Bird]

Can I germinate/sprout on the stove on it's lowest setting, even indirectly? (eg. similar to how fondue is heated) Using a thermometer, of course.

if you have a pilot light - that would be enough most likely - you'd have to be super careful, not sure if it's worth the risk.

I've heard tell of people germinating on top of the fridge, water heater, and near the computer for warmth....:)

[Shelly11]

maybe try a heating pad...that may be a little safer