Growing Microgreens Indoors All Year Round: Step-by-Step Guide

Microgreens have become a popular food trend due to their nutritional benefits, crisp flavors, and vibrant colors. One of the several advantages of microgreens is that they can be grown indoors throughout the year. This means you can enjoy these nutritious greens regardless of the season.

Getting Started with Microgreens

Microgreens are the young vegetable greens harvested just after the cotyledon leaves have developed. They are filled with nutritional benefits and usually have a concentrated flavor compared to their mature counterparts. Some popular varieties include arugula, beet, basil, cabbage, kale, radish, and sunflower.

Seeds

Selecting the right seeds is paramount in growing microgreens. It is recommended to use organic seeds specifically labeled for sprouting or growing microgreens. Non-treated organic seeds ensure higher germination rates and eliminate the risk of ingesting harmful chemicals.

Growing Medium

While soil is the most common growing medium, there are several soilless options available to grow microgreens. Coconut coir, peat, perlite, vermiculite, or a blend of these materials provide effective alternatives. A good growing medium should retain moisture, provide aeration, and support healthy root development.

Lighting

Microgreens require a good source of light for optimal growth. While natural light works best, a full spectrum grow light can also be used, particularly during the winter months where daylight is minimal. An LED grow light is energy-efficient, paints plants in a more realistic light, and produces less heat—making it an excellent choice for indoor growing.

Temperature and Humidity

A temperature range between 60-70°F (16-21°C) is ideal for most microgreens. Humidity should be kept around 40-60%, ensuring the microgreens don’t dry out or become waterlogged.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grow Microgreens

1. Preparing the Growing Trays: Fill the tray with about 1-2 inches of your chosen growing medium. Dampen the soil with a spray bottle – it should be wet but not soaked.

2. Sowing Seeds: Spread your selected seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Press them gently to ensure good contact with the soil but do not cover them, as light stimulates growth.

3. Watering: Using a spray bottle, mist the seeds lightly. Cover the tray with a dome or another tray to create a greenhouse-like effect, which helps retain moisture during germination.

4. Germination: Place the tray in a warm area that maintains the optimal temperature range. Keep the seeds moist by misting them daily. Depending on the seed type, germination can take anywhere from 3-7 days.

5. Lighting: Once the seeds have sprouted, remove the cover and move them to a well-lit location. If using artificial lights, a distance of 6-12 inches above the greens is suitable.

6. Watering: Water once or twice daily. It’s important to water gently to avoid damaging the fragile stems.

7. Harvesting: Most microgreens are ready to harvest in 1-3 weeks. When the first true leaves (the second set of leaves) develop, it’s time to harvest. Using a sharp pair of scissors, cut the microgreens just above the soil.

8. Replanting: After harvesting, you can replant immediately. Just add a new layer of soil to the tray and sow another batch of seeds.

Preserving and Using Microgreens

Microgreens are enjoyed best when fresh. However, if you need to store them, do so in the refrigerator in a sealed, breathable bag. Use them within a week to savor their optimal flavor and nutritional value. Microgreens make a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, juices, and smoothies. They can also be used as garnishes to add color and flavor to your dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite their small size, microgreens require care and attention. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to diseases like damping off. Microgreens prefer a moist environment, not a wet one, hence misting is best.

Overcrowding the seeds is another issue. While they should be sown relatively closely, too many seeds can restrict airflow and promote mold growth.

Not providing enough light can result in leggy microgreens. If they are stretching for light, this could make them too delicate to harvest.

Growing microgreens indoors all year round is a fresh and nutritious way to enhance your meals. The process is simple and can be adapted to suit your culinary preference. With the right guidance, you can achieve a productive microgreen gardening system in your own home.