Need expert advice for water kefir grains

[Guest guest]

Okay, I've had my water kefir grains for almost 2 years. Over the winter, I

pretty much ignored them. They were left in the refrigerator for several months

without a water/sugar change. I know, I'm an idiot! Lol! Anyway....right now

they're making the best kefir I've ever had and it's really fizzy.

Here's my dilemma...they're NOT multiplying like they used to do. Before, I

would get about a 1-2 cup growth in every batch (I make a gallon at a time).

Here's what I've done to try to encourage growth:

* add a quarter tsp baking soda

* added fresh ginger (supposed to rejuvenate grains)

* tried different types of sugar

* added molasses (unsulphured)

* put egg shell in each batch (tried it without too)

* I put a half of lemon in each batch (yes, tried without)

* tried with and without dried fruit (always unsulphured)

The grains are clear (well, brownish clear from sugar), they're not slimey and

they are firm, not mushy. Again, I'm getting GREAT kefir from them, just no

growth. Water source has not changed so that's not it. I've even tried letting

them sit in the refrigerator for a day in sugar water to see if that would help

boost them.

Anyone out there want to weigh in on this?

OH, and if anyone wants to get their water kefir really fizzy, add the fresh

ginger. I think that's what did it for mine. I cut them in slices and then

press them with my mortar and pestle to release more of the juice. You could do

the same with the back of a spoon on a cutting board.

Shari