fedpeak

Starter type

Whole Wheat Starter (100% Hydration)

Jar shows consistency at 100% hydration (liquid flat surface), bubble density from fast activity, and hue from the whole wheat base. Peak rise marked on jar side.

Hydration
100%
Flour base
whole wheat
Activity
fast
Flavor
nutty-tangy

About Whole Wheat Starter (100% Hydration)

100% whole wheat starter. Fast activity (5-8h peak at 76°F). Pronounced nutty, earthy flavor — more robust than white liquid starter but gentler than rye. Excellent for whole-grain-focused breads. Many natural starters begin with whole wheat flour because the additional yeast spores on the bran kick-start the culture. Can be gradually transitioned to bread flour maintenance once established, or kept whole wheat for flavor.

Feeding ratio: 1:1:1

Refrigerate after feeding; feed 1:5:5 weekly. Some bakers rotate feeding between bread flour and whole wheat for best of both activity and flavor.

Feed calculator

Use the selector below to set the feed ratio (default 1:5:5 for weekly refrigerator maintenance). Adjust current and target weights.

Keep (mature starter)
27.3 g
Add flour
136.4 g
Add water
136.4 g
Discard
22.7 g
Total after feed
300 g

Sources: Hamelman Bread (3rd ed., preferment chapter); Reinhart The Bread Baker's Apprentice.