Lager starter

[Highlander]

I know lager yeasts are slower growing beasts and need to be pitched in higher numbers. But after that I'm lost.
Assuming that I've got a 40l batch of 1050 odd pils in 2 20l fermenters and I'm using wlp800.
Should I do a starter or just buy 2 vials?
If I bought 1 vial what size and gravity should I do and when should start it(prior to brewing)

[Aleman]

Mr Malty Reckons 3 vials into 4 Litres of starter on a stir plate

[bigrichlock]

And thats assuming good, 90%+ yeast viability, if the yeast is a couple of months old and its nearer 60% viability then more vials or bigger starter or just do a couple of steps to get to your 900 billion yeast cells needed!

Rich

[Aleman]

Agreed with Rich . . . I normally go from one vial into 1 Litre . . .Then when that is bubbling well up to 5 litres . . . and for big batches (80+L) normally up to 15 or 20L

[Highlander]

wow. thats a lot of yeasts,
thanks for the link.

[Highlander]

Last question. I promise.
I've only got a 2l flask. I've got 2 vials of wlp800, so I guess I'm only able to make a 2l starter with both vials.
I want to make the most of what I've got. Normally for ales I start 24 hours or so before. When should I start a lager starter.
Was aiming for a 1040 starter. Is this the ideal strength, or should I go lower?

[Cozzyb]

Geez, 3 vials? I swear some of these brewers have more money then sense, at £6 each you would have to be mad to use 3 of these, I would just buy beer at that price.

[Belter]

Geez, 3 vials? I swear some of these brewers have more money then sense, at £6 each you would have to be mad to use 3 of these, I would just buy beer at that price.

I think you're on the wrong forum mate.

I take it it is possible to grow from one vial if you had a large enough conical?

[bigrichlock]

Yes you can grow from one vial you just need several steps using a 2L and 5L Conical flask and a stir plate, in theory you could your pitch-able amount from one cell!

Rich

[Belter]

that's what I thought. Not sure a 5L conical would fit on my stir plate