Starting out with a microgreens tray can be a daunting prospect for beginners, but with the right approach and a little patience, it can yield rich rewards. Microgreens, the tiny, aromatic greens harvested just a week after germination, pack a nutritional punch and are easy to grow at home; all you need is a tray! If you’re a beginner, you might wonder what kind of microgreens tray to opt for, how to sow the seeds, when to harvest, and how to take care of the plants. This article aims to simplify that process by detailing some recommendations for a beginner’s microgreens tray.
Choosing the Right Microgreens Tray
Your microgreens journey begins with the selection of the appropriate tray. These trays can be made of various materials, including plastic, ceramic, or even wood. However, the most common and affordable are plastic trays. Choose a tray that is designed for microgreens with drainage holes and enough depth for the roots to grow.
A standard 10”x20” tray is an excellent choice for beginners. It’s large enough to grow a decent number of plants but not so large that it becomes unmanageable. This size is also adopted because they fit most growing shelves or racks, and are easily available.
Organic Soil Mix
Once you have the tray, the next step is to fill it with some nutrient-rich potting soil. Organic soil mix works best for microgreens as it is denser and holds water better. It’s also rich in essential nutrients compared to regular soil or dirt. Try to create a one-inch layer of soil in the tray.
Choice of Seeds
The choice of seeds for your microgreen tray will depend on your taste preferences and the available growing conditions. Some common and easy varieties for beginners include radish, mustard, kale, and sunflower microgreens. If you prefer a little spice or tang, you could go for arugula or broccoli. Make sure you buy seeds labeled explicitly for microgreens. They aren’t treated with fungicides, meaning they’re safer to eat when they’re still little seedlings.
Planting the Seeds
Once the tray is prepared with soil, it’s time to sow the seeds. Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Try not to clump the seeds together as this can lead to poor germination or encourage mold growth. Once you’ve spread the seeds, press them lightly into the soil using a piece of cardboard or the palm of your hand, and then dust a light layer of soil over the top.
Watering the Microgreens
Microgreens need to be kept constantly moist but not swimming in water. Ideally, you’d use a spray bottle to mist your seeds once or twice a day. Some trays come with a second tray that fits underneath the one with holes; you can pour water into this tray, and it will keep your soil moist from the bottom up.
Proper Lighting
Light is vital for the growth of microgreens. They do well under fluorescent or LED lights, or they can be grown in a well-lit window. Remember, for effective photosynthesis, the plants need at least six hours of sunlight. If you’re using artificial lights, keep them around six inches above the plants.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Microgreens prefer a temperature range of 65-75°F (18-24°C). Out of this range, the plants may grow slowly or even die. A domestic heating mat can help maintain a steady temperature if your home gets very cool. Humidity should also be monitored as excess humidity can lead to the growth of molds.
Harvesting your Microgreens
In about one to three weeks, your microgreens will be ready to harvest. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve developed their first set of true leaves. To harvest, simply cut the plants just above the soil line. Be sure to wash them thoroughly before eating as they can still have soil on them.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Reusing a microgreens tray can be advantageous, provided it is adequately cleaned and sanitized after each crop. This prevents disease build-up and ensures seed germination and crop success in subsequent plantings. Regular dish soap or a 10% bleach solution can be used to sterilize the trays.
Using the right microgreens tray, combined with carefully selected seeds and comprehensive planting methods, will surely result in a successful microgreens growth. Equip yourself with patience and be ready to learn from both your successes and failures. Most importantly, enjoy the process. In no time, you will have a tray overflowing with vibrant, nutritious greens for your culinary enjoyment. Happy microgreening!
