In over my head on my 1st lager

[deerleg I am!]

Dummy me thought it was like brewing an ale.
Doing a Czech Pilsner (estimated OG 1.051) and have a couple of questions.
It looks like the single pack of Wyeast 2278 Czech Pils is not enough on its own to pitch my planed 5.25 gal batch…it looks like I need about 500 billion yeast cells, so I guess I need to do a starter?
Would the below be a good method?:
• I gal water
• 1lb DME
• Pitch starter at 70* for 3-4 days or until vigorous fermentation has slowed cool to 45-47* and pour off nutrient and add yeast to 45-47* wart?
Thanks!

[grapeadmin]

It would be best to make a starter but I have done it without one. Just one XL wyeast in 5 gallons of wort. It will likely take 2 days or so to start fermenting.

Your process outline for the starter is correct. You could also just do a 1/2 gallon starter. Make sure you pitch when both the yeast starter and the beer wort are at 47 to 52 deg F.

john
g and g

[deerleg I am!]

Thanks John
Pitched with a starter and have vigorous fermentation after about 12 hours.

Wyeast's web page suggest's the range for the Chech Pils is 50-59*.

I pitched at about 57* and wart temp is now at 54*. Think I need to drop it further?

[grapeadmin]

I would shoot for around 50 deg. F.. Don't forget, that yeast produces some sulfur which will likely be evident when the beer is young. Don't freak out and give it time to age out.

john