Lecture Notes on Chia Seed Growing and Usage

Introduction

Chia seeds have become increasingly popular due to their high nutritional value, especially omega-3.
They are easy to grow and require minimal care.

Sowing: Simply plant chia seeds in plowed ground; they grow easily with little to no maintenance.
Growth:
- Seeds sprout quickly after absorbing water.
- Seedlings emerge in a few days and grow rapidly.
- Real leaves appear shortly after sprouting.
Planting Technique:
- Often planted with corn, beans, and other crops.
- Requires no additional watering or weeding.
Flowering:
- Chia plants produce beautiful purple flowers.
- Two varieties: white and purple flowers, differing only in color.
Harvesting:
- Seeds ready when seed pods turn brown.
- Harvest by hand or with machines.
- Separate seeds from chaff using simple techniques.

Harvested seeds can be processed by hand or machine.
Traditional methods include using trays or strainers to separate seeds from dust.

Culinary Uses:
- Can be added to bread, blended into butter, or used in beverages.
- Popular method: soak in water to form a jelly-like substance.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Provides necessary daily nutrition (1-3 tablespoons).
- Jelly helps absorb stomach fat and prolongs satiety.
- Used for weight loss.

Preparation:
- Wash seeds to remove dirt and dust.
- Soak in water (1 part seeds to 6 parts water) until a jelly forms.
Eating Methods:
- Add to soy milk or overnight oats for enhanced nutrition.
- Combine with other ingredients like cooked beans, barley, etc.

Chia seeds were introduced to Thailand from the USA in 2003.
Initially used as a healthy food option for babies.
Their popularity has grown, with more people recognizing their nutritional benefits.

Chia seeds are a high-nutrition, easy-to-grow alternative to expensive superfoods.
Encourages self-sufficiency and sustainable gardening practices.

For more information on sustainable gardening, check out the ebook available on Amazon.