Can't get barley to sprout?

Hello! I am not a brewer, but I am trying to malt some barley to then dry and powder for baking purposes. What I've seen online says to just soak barley, drain it, and let it sit for a few days to sprout, but every time I have tried this, the barley just starts to stink and I throw it away. I figured home brewers were probably the best people to ask! Thanks!