Abstract: A pad (16) of open celled fully reticulated polyurethane foam which is substantially hydrophobic serves as a bed for growing sprouts (14) from seeds (12). A high percentage of interconnected voids in the pad (16) provide a high degree of permeability to air flow and the material has surface properties, which retain adhered droplets of moisture providing humid environment without holding localized moisture which might prevent the free flow of air through the pad. The bulk of any applied water or mist is drained through or away from the pad, thus flushing impurities from it. A loose cover sheet of film (15) helps retain a humid atmosphere and pad (16) may be wrapped in such a sheet (18) to package the sprouts (14). The pad (16) may be transferred to a shipping tray (34) after the seeds are sprouted or may be originally placed in it. The pad (16) and tray (34) may have an extended lip (38) for collecting moisture when the package is inclined on end to provide optimum conditions during storage.

Abstract: Seeds are sprouted within a cup-shaped container to confine and entangle them in a packable group. The seeds are uniformly spread across the bottom of the container with the aid of an upwardly directed light source. The bottom of the container is porous and a flow of air maintained through it during sprouting. The sprouts are entangled by growing in a porous hydrophobic foam or tilting the bottom of the container to several angles for the sprouts to mature. After maturing, the entangled sprouts are dumped from the container and wrapped under tension to provide a strong compact resilient package in a wrapper sheet which is folded over itself and sealed by heat sealing, twisting or crimping.