Last reviewed: 2026-06-05
Feeding schedule calculator
Sourdough feeding schedule calculator
Choose your target bake time, room temperature, feeding ratio, and starter amount. The calculator estimates when to feed so your starter peaks on schedule.
For same-day baking, 1:1:1 often peaks fastest, 1:2:2 gives a wider daytime window, and 1:5:5 is better for overnight timing. Warmer kitchens speed everything up; cooler kitchens slow everything down.
Plan a starter feed
How the feeding estimate works
- The ratio is starter:flour:water by weight, so a 1:2:2 feed means twice as much flour and water as seed starter.
- Higher ratios usually peak later because the same culture has more fresh food to ferment.
- Temperature correction is approximate: warmer rooms shorten peak time and cooler rooms lengthen it.
Feeding schedule tips
- Use 1:1:1 when you need a fast refresh and can watch the jar.
- Use 1:2:2 for many evening-feed, morning-mix routines.
- Use 1:5:5 when you need a longer overnight levain build.
- Keep cups out of the core math; sourdough feeding ratios are weight-based.
FAQ
What does a 1:1:1 sourdough feeding ratio mean?+
It means equal weights of starter, flour, and water. For example: 30g starter, 30g flour, and 30g water.
How often should I feed sourdough starter?+
At room temperature, many mature starters are fed daily. In the fridge, many bakers feed weekly, then refresh before baking.
What feeding ratio should I use overnight?+
A 1:5:5 ratio is often useful overnight because it gives the starter more food and a slower peak.
Should I feed starter by weight or volume?+
Use weight. Grams keep the starter hydration and feeding ratio consistent.