Do I have time for my starter?

[Redweasel]

I've always made my starter a few days ahead of time but this time my yeast will not be delivered until Monday and I'm brewing Wednesday. Is 24 hours enough time for a starter or should I just say F*ck it and pitch right out of the tube? I know, stupid question but I've always had adequate time to let the Ole starter "simmer". Oh, by the way I'm looking at about 24 hrs for the starter to get going.

[MrMarbleHead]

Any time i better than none. 24 hours is enough time to get the yeast activated and well into the reproductive stages of fermentation. Just be sure to aerate the starter really well and give it a swirl as often as possible to keep the yeast up in suspension.

[Redweasel]

I figured as much. Thanks for the reassurance.

[Ryanh1801]

yea, I do this all the time.. works great.

[Ó Flannagáin]

If you are talking about the hefe you are brewing, then a starter isn't really necessary. You will get a lot more banana without a starter though, because the yeast will be so stressed at the beginning of fermentation.

[Redweasel]

Yeah, it's for the Hefe. I'll probably go ahead and try to make the starter. I want some nice banana, but not an overwhelming amount.

[DrunkenSatyr]

I would make one even if it only had a few hours until brew time.

[Redweasel]

Went ahead and made the starter about 24 hours ahead of time. It must have worked well as I've got blow off 8 hours later! :mrgreen:

[Barley-Davidson]

I get good results between 12 and 24 hours too. I think you only need more time if you are going to decant; if you plan to pitch the entire starter you can make it the day before.