Sprouting Seed (continued) Then, I run the handle of a fork though it to make grooves through the pile of damp seed. This allows additional air circulation, one of the key factors in making good sprouted seed. This sprouter (purchased through Sunshine Bird Supply in Miami Florida) is intended to do the spouting from start to finish but I found that it does not drain the seed as well as my metal strainer and some of my early trials led to foul seed. I now use the sprouter just to contain the well-drained seed while they germinate. The sprouter is placed on the top cage in the bird room or on top of the upright freezer where it is at about 80F. I find this temperature will cause sprouting to occur very fast. It should sprout in 24-36 hours. Correctly sprouted seed will have just a little white dot coming out (photo) and not a big root (photo). If your sprouted seed smell like dirty diapers, ultra sweet, or look discolored it is better not to use them. They should be sprouting little white roots and smell a bit earthy, I think like hay or fresh breafast cereal. If you see fungal mats throw them out. Remember, it is better to be careful then sorry. If you are unsure or have had bad experiences, there are chemical additives that can be added to seed while sprouting to prevent seed from getting bacteria. 
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