Chia Pets are American styled terracotta figurines used to sprout chia, where the chia sprouts grow within a couple of weeks to resemble the animal's fur or hair.

When you think about it, a chia pet is a figurine made out of terra cotta clay (the same as most flower pots) and is covered with chia seeds that you sprout into hair or fur.

Joseph Pedott Who is he? Joseph Pedott was an advertising executive and entrepreneur, best known for introducing Chia Pets to consumers after coming across the invention at a trade show in the late 1970's. Pedott was born in Chicago, and had a difficult childhood.

Your Chia Pet should last about 2 weeks. Once the chia seeds have run their course, it's easy enough to peel the layer off. Wash away any residual seeds, allow your Chia Pet to dry for a couple of days, and store it or go through the process again!

Chia provides a similar amount of omega-3 fatty acids as ground flaxseed in the form of alpha linolenic acid, or ALA. They can help with weight loss. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which can improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels and promote intestinal health.

The seeds produce a mucilaginous gel when soaked in water. Chia is a desert plant requiring little irrigation and grows well in sandy loam soils, but it is sensitive to frost and day length . The plant resists insect pests and disease and is a good candidate for organic production.

Though they're safe for most people, chia seeds may cause an increased risk of choking. So make sure you consume them carefully, especially if you have difficulty swallowing.

However, the species grown on the chia Pet is Salvia hispanica . The Chia was a major food for the aztecs and Indians. They roasted the seeds, mixed them with water and eaten them as gruel or ground into baking. The Aztecs also used Chia for Oil face painting and as ointment and emoilent.

Central America Its origin is believed to be in Central America where the seed was a staple in the ancient Aztec diet. The seeds of a related plant, Salvia columbariae (golden chia), were used primarily by Native Americans in the southwestern United States. Chia seeds have gained attention as an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acid.

In 2022, Paraguay was the leading exporter of chia seed, exporting about 112.4 million U.S. dollars' worth of chia seeds to the rest of the world. That year, China was the second major exporter of chia seed with exports valuing about 88 million U.S. dollars.

FULL GROWTH 1-2 WEEKS Watch as your chia seeds sprout and grow into Bob Ross's iconic hair.

We advise to discard accumulated water in the drip tray daily. And replace fresh water in the planter.

Chia seeds can absorb up to 10 times their weight in water, helping to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

• Hydration. Photo by Unsplash.
• Rich in Fiber. Photo by Unsplash.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Photo by Unsplash.
• Antioxidants. Photo by Unsplash.
• Bone Health.
• Weight Management.
• Blood Sugar Control.
• Improved Digestion.

Chia seed consumption may offer health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and improving digestive health. However, certain individuals may experience side effects if they eat large quantities of chia seeds, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and allergies.

Allow for maximum sunlight whenever possible. If possible, place the Bryce Harper Chia Pet near a window or outside on a patio or table during daylight hours. Keep the chia seeds moist throughout the day. Once your Bryce Harper Chia Pet starts to fill in with grass, you can cut back on the watering needs.

You May Experience Digestive Issues About 2 tablespoons of chia seeds pack nearly 10 grams of fiber. And although fiber is an essential nutrient for gut health, a side effect of fiber is gas and bloating, according to Mount Sinai. "Some people may experience GI and digestive issues from eating too many chia seeds.