My water kefir crystals grow very slowly.Updated 2 years ago
Did you just get your kefir or have a longer break? Then give the water kefir crystals enough time to get used to their new environment. If you have just taken them out of the fridge or they have had a long journey by post, then they will need to acclimatise in the following brewing cycle.
Once the kefir has settled in and is well cared for, it will soon begin to multiply.
Note the following points for optimal growth:
- Feed the water kefir regularly: Your water kefir should be fed regularly and get new sugar every 24-72 hours depending on the temperature. If the water kefir is left to stand for too long, this will damage the culture and some micro-organism species will die in large quantities because the environment no longer suits them.
- Give the water kefir sugar water: While water kefir also works in various nutrient solutions, the crystals should always be given sugar solution, as this is their usual, optimal environment. Coconut water or juice can be exhausting for the culture in the long run and the acid from the juice can also be harmful in the long run. Use the right proportions: Many people try to reduce sugar because they think it is bad for them. However, sugar is primarily the food for the crystals and therefore needs to be present. For one litre of water you need 60g of sugar, 30g of water kefir crystals, 30g of organic dried fruit and 2 slices of organic citrus fruit or a splash of organic citrus juice. If you have already brewed once successfully, you can also replace the citrus juice with kefir from the last brew.
- Remove surplus crystals
- Find a warm place: Water kefir likes it warm. The place where the crystals do their work should ideally be between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. The warmer it is, the faster the yeasts start to break down the sugar. It is best to put the water kefir in a place that is warmest in your home, but do not leave it with the glass in direct sunlight.
- Do not store the water kefir in the fridge for too long: water kefir crystals can survive for several weeks in a sugar solution in the refrigerator. However, the cold environment is not the optimal habitat for all microorganisms to behave as potent as possible. For best results in terms of growth, the average temperature should never change much.
- Make sure your water kefir gets enough minerals: Water kefir needs mineral-rich water to grow best. You can find out more about this under the section on water. You can also add a tablespoon of molasses to the mixture as a "mineral cure" for your kefir.