Quick Answer

Soak the seeds, apply them to the terracotta, keep the planter moist, and watch your Smorkin Labbit sprout in about 1–2 weeks.

Why Chia Pet Care Is Different for a Collectible

The Smorkin Labbit Chia Pet is a limited-edition collectible, not a mass-market toy. Its terracotta body is porous and can stain or crack if mishandled. Treating it with care helps preserve the design and value.

What You Need Before You Start

You'll need the Chia Pet planter, the included chia seeds (or a replacement pack), a shallow bowl for soaking, and a spray bottle for daily misting. Avoid using tap water with high mineral content—filtered or distilled water works best.

Step-by-Step Growing and Care Guide

  1. Soak the Seeds: Place the chia seeds in a bowl of water and let them soak for 1–2 hours. This hydrates the seeds and helps them stick to the terracotta. Don't soak longer than 2 hours—seeds can become mushy and rot.
  2. Apply the Seeds: Use a spoon or your fingers to spread the soaked seeds evenly over the grooves of the Smorkin Labbit's head. Press gently so they adhere. Avoid applying seeds to the face or body—only the designated head area.
  3. Water the Planter Daily: Fill the base tray with water so the terracotta can absorb moisture from below. Mist the seeds once a day with a spray bottle to keep them damp. Overwatering leads to mold; if you see fuzzy growth, reduce misting and increase airflow.
  4. Provide Indirect Light: Place the Chia Pet in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. A windowsill that gets morning sun is ideal. Direct afternoon sun can scorch the sprouts or fade the paint on your Labbit.
  5. Trim and Maintain: Once the chia sprouts reach about 2 inches tall, you can trim them with scissors to shape the 'hair.' Continue watering the base tray. Don't pull the sprouts—they may damage the terracotta. Always cut with clean scissors.