Job's Tears Seeds

Coix lacryma-jobi

Also known as corn beads, coix seed or tear grass, Job's Tears are a member of the grass family, and grow similarly to corn. Used for beads since at least 2,000 BCE, and recently uncovered at a western Native American historical site. Once an important source of food, most likely originating in India. Today we grow them primarily for their very hard, teardrop shaped grains that are used as beads for making jewelry and other craft projects. Job's Tears are also used in traditional Chinese medicine, where they are known as yi yi ren.

Our grower for these seeds notes that they germinate significantly faster if soaked overnight in warm water before planting. Sprouting Tips: Soak seed beads overnight in warm water. Lightly cover with potting soil.  Keep soil moist. For improved germination rate, cover seeds to ensure soil remains moist.

Direct seed or transplant into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Seeds may benefit from soaking ahead of planting. Job’s Tears will need full sun and rich, well-draining soil. Plant in blocks rather than rows to ensure good seed development. Water well to ensure good germination. Once germinated, Job’s Tears will need at least an inch of water per week. Allow seeds to dry on the plant as much as possible before picking. Annual.

SMALL FARM GROWN by Trouvaille Farm in Athens, OH