CHIA HERB GARDEN®

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's that fuzzy white stuff on my seeds? Is it mildew? Will they grow?

A: Don't panic. The furry white growth is a natural byproduct of the tree bark in the Chia Growing Sponge. It actually is a source of nutrition for your seeds, and should not hinder your plant's growth. If it is too unsightly, simply wipe it away. It is caused because of the high humidity and little air movement and is most noticeable on the seeds that take the longest to germinate, such as cilantro.

Q: I planted my seeds, but nothing happened. What did I do wrong? Are my seeds bad?

A: The most common reason that seeds fail to sprout is a lack of moisture. If your seeds have failed to sprout after 14 days, remove them from the sponges and rinse the sponges well. Replant with new herb seeds (call Joseph Enterprises Customer Service for more information). Keep pots covered loosely with open sandwich bags. This increases humidity around the seeds and helps encourage them to sprout. If you're still having problems, please call us.

Q: Why are there 6 packets of herb seeds and 4 pots and saucers?

A: We provide 4 pots and 6 packets of seeds so that you may create your own personal gourmet mix, using only your favorite of the seed packets. If you want to grow the others, you may order additional pots and sponges from Joseph Enterprises.

Q: What's the Chia Growing Sponge composed of?

A: The Chia Growing Sponge is a specially developed medium to make germinating and growing plants from seeds quicker and easier than other methods available. It is made up of peat moss, bark, and sponge material. It is superabsorbent and will maintain the proper air to water ratios necessary for plant growth.

Q: My herbs are a pale greenish yellow color. Why?

A: They are not receiving enough light. Without proper light, herbs will be this pale color, and may even grow thin and spindly. You may want to consider supplementing with artificial light. Some customers have found success using a combination of two to four 40 watt warm-white and cool-white fluorescent tubes (48 inch). Special plant-growth lamps or "Grow-Lights" are also available for good herb growth. The light source should be kept low over the herbs (2 to 4 inches) and raised once the herbs touch the tubes or bulbs. The light source should not be raised higher than two feet.

Q: Why don't my herbs look like the ones on the Chia Herb Garden box?

A: Because your herbs are probably still young. When they reach full maturity, they will fill out and become lush and look more like the photograph.

Q: How do I transplant my herbs to the yard?

A: Transplanting has never been easier than with the revolutionary Chia Growing Sponge. Just place your hand at the base of the plant and tip the terra cotta pot upside-down. The herbs should be transplanted right along with the sponge, into a hole slightly larger than the sponge itself.