Starting and maintaining a microgreens garden requires a little bit of skill, a good growth medium, quality seeds, and an appropriate tray. For beginners, choosing the best microgreens tray which perfectly suits their style of growing can seem daunting. However, with a few simple tips, making the right choice becomes significantly easier. This article will provide comprehensive information on how to select an ideal tray for growing microgreens.
When choosing a microgreens tray, various factors need to be considered. Opt for trays that allow proper air circulation, have drainage holes, and are made of high-quality, food-grade plastics. Always choose a tray that fits your growing area perfectly and can appropriately accommodate your seeds.
Microgreens trays come in various types, shapes, and sizes, reinforcing the need for keenness when selecting one. Some of the renowned types of microgreens trays widely used by growers to make their experience easier and more effective include growing/shallow trays, 10*20 growing trays, and bootstrap farmer trays.
- Growing/Shallow Trays
For beginners in the world of microgreens gardening, growing trays or shallow trays are a perfect place to start. These trays are usually around 1.25-2 inches deep. This depth is ideal for most microgreens, allowing the tiny roots ample space to spread while preventing water logging. Shallow trays also make it easier to manage the soil and nutrients used in the growing process. Besides, growing trays are light and portable, making the maintenance practices manageable. The downside of shallow trays is that they may require frequent watering due to their shallow nature.
- 10*20 Grow Trays
1020 growing trays are another excellent option for people starting their journey in microgreen farming. The dimensions (10inches by 20inches) are constant across different makes and models, making them easy to stack and organize. These trays are highly suitable for several types of microgreen crops and can be used both indoors and outdoors. With these trays, growers have the flexibility to either grow the plants directly in the tray or use inserts. 1020 trays are highly durable and have proper drain holes that can be covered when necessary.
- Bootstrap Farmer Trays
Bootstrap farmer trays have gained popularity for their heavy-duty strength, longevity, and superior drainage system. Made from BPA-free, food-safe polypropylene plastic, these trays are essential for any serious microgreen grower. They might be on the pricier side, but their durability and reliability are worth the investment. In addition to the quality of the tray, Bootstrap Farmer offers excellent customer service.
Apart from identifying the right type of tray, a beginner microgreens grower should also take drainage into account. Proper drainage is essential in any form of gardening, including microgreens gardening. Overly wet soil encourages the growth of mold and other diseases, which can destroy the crop. Therefore, choose trays that have sufficient drainage holes.
Lighting is another crucial aspect to consider while buying a microgreens tray. Although the trays themselves do not provide any light, they can amplify or diminish the effectiveness of your light source depending on their color. White trays are perfect for reflecting light, ensuring your microgreens get all the light they need. If your light source is intense, you might want to consider black or darker colored trays to absorb some of the light.
Consider the quality of the material, more importantly, with regards to cleaning. The trays should be easy to clean after every crop to prevent disease and pest infestations. It’s better to opt for trays that have smooth surfaces as they are easier to wipe clean.
Cost is inevitably a critical factor while shopping for anything, including microgreens trays. While it may be tempting to go for cheaper options available in the market, consider the durability of the trays before making a purchase. It’s better to invest in higher-priced but durable trays that will serve you for several years than to spend money on replacements regularly.
In conclusion, setting up your first microgreen garden should not be a daunting task. With proper planning and the right equipment, starting on this rewarding journey can be exhilarating. Therefore, make sure you choose a tray that suits your specific needs, considering factors such as durability, type of materials used, design, size, light absorption, and cost. A good microgreens tray should be an investment. Therefore, take your time, do your research, and choose wisely.
