How to Soak Seeds for Finches

When raising or offering food to finches, soaked seeds provide many nutrients beneficial to birds. The seed soaking process requires at least 24 hours.

Things You'll Need

  • Pre-mixed finch seed
  • Wide-mouthed glass jar
  • Square of muslin cloth
  • Rubber band
  • Water
  • Sieve or colander
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a finch seed mix or make your own consisting of 10 percent niger seed; 10 hemp seed; 20 percent red rape seed; 20 percent black rape seed; and 40 percent millet.

    • 2

      Place 5 heaping tablespoons of the finch seed mix into a wide-mouthed glass jar. Place a large square of muslin cloth over the jar and secure the sides with a rubber band wound around the mouth of the jar.

    • 3

      Hold the jar underneath a water faucet and fill the jar 3/4 of the way full. Move the jar in a tight circular motion to create a swirling action in the water and agitate the seeds. This will help remove dust that can cause bacterial and fungal growth. Drain the water.

    • 4

      Repeat Step 3 approximately 2 to 3 more times. The last time you drain the jar, refill it 3/4 of the way with room temperature water, approximately 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Soak the seeds for 12 hours.

    • 5

      Take off the muslin cover, pour the seeds in a sieve or colander and drain. Place the sieve inside a larger bowl and allow to sit for 12 hours. Rinse the seeds every 3 to 4 hours. By the end of the 12 hours, the seeds should be sprouting. Place the drained seeds back in the glass jar, with the muslin cover, to allow air circulation, and place in the refrigerator. Use the seeds within 5 to 7 days.