Microgreens are nutritional powerhouses that fit into any home’s culinary arsenal easily. However, their cultivation hinges on the right selection of microgreen trays that allow your greens to flourish. This article will guide you on choosing such trays, packed with detailed reviews and suggestions.
Choosing the Right Microgreen Tray
Choosing the correct microgreen tray is directly related to the success of your microgreens harvest. While different trays work well for different cultivators, certain essential factors should guide your choice.
Size and Shape: Microgreen trays are usually standardized to fit on most shelves or greenhouse frameworks. A standard size measures 10” x 20”. However, smaller sizes are available to accommodate those with limited space or those growing for personal consumption. Choose a size and shape that best fits your microgreens’ growth and your space availability.
Material: The most popular material for microgreen trays is plastic due to its lightweight nature and affordability. A higher quality plastic tray would be food-grade, BPA-free, and UV-resistant to ensure safe and healthy plants.
Drainage: Waterlogged soil could drown your microgreens, so it’s crucial to consider drainage. While some trays come with holes for easier drainage, others do not. Your choice will depend on your watering methods, where the tray is located, and the type of microgreens you’re growing.
Shallow vs Deep Trays: Shallow trays are recommended for microgreens as they don’t require a lot of soil to thrive. They also deter overwatering and help the greens dry out more easily. However, deeper trays might be suitable for specific types of microgreens.
Microgreen Tray Reviews and Suggestions
1010 Plant Growing Trays: These heavy-duty, shallow trays are ideal for growing microgreens. With measurements of 10” x 10”, they’re perfect for individual servings or small families. They are solid and do not have drainage holes, ideal for indoor growing and ensuring no water mess.
Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Trays: Known for durability, these trays offer fantastic longevity due to their rigid, reinforced construction, and UV-resistance. Whether you opt for the version with drainage holes or without, these trays are excellent for heavy-duty growers.
True Leaf Microgreens Growing Trays: These superior quality trays come with holes, perfect for the moisture requirements of microgreens. The packs typically consist of ten without a set base, enabling the user to layer the trays for clear-cut drainage management.
Living Whole Foods 10 Plant Growing Trays: These 20” x 10” trays come with no holes, making them fantastic for indoor growers. The high-quality plastic promises longevity, and their size offers an ample growing area for large-scale microgreen cultivation.
Microgreen Tray Recommendations
If you are starting your microgreens journey, the 1010 Plant Growing Trays offer a fantastic beginner-friendly option with easy handling features. For seasoned growers or those wanting to scale up, the Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Trays provide a solid, durable choice.
In terms of drainage, if you’re using a self-watering system or growing hydroponically, trays without holes are ideal. An example of this is the Living Whole Foods 10 trays. However, if you’re manually watering your microgreens, trays with holes like the True Leaf Microgreens Growing Trays provide excellent drainage management.
When it comes to material, maintaining plant health and safety should top your concerns. Trays made from food-safe and BPA-free plastic, such as those offered by Bootstrap Farmer, would be the best fit.
In conclusion, selecting the right microgreen tray is a balance between the tray’s features and your specific growth requirements. Consider variables such as size, shape, material, drainage, and tray depth when making your decision. Armed with the tray reviews and recommendations above, you are well-equipped to make an informed choice that caters to your microgreen growing needs.
