Why Microgreen Trays are Essential
Microgreens were first introduced to the Californian restaurant scene in the 1980s. Now, they’ve grown in popularity among professional chefs and home growers alike. These tiny, immature crops are harvested when they’re only a couple of inches tall, usually 10-14 days after planting.
Highly nutritious and packed full of vitamins, microgreens are considered a superfood, and can be grown all year round, indoors or outdoors. They can provide a rich source of nutrients, especially during winter months when fresh produce is scarce. The secret to growing microgreens is getting the right tray. Microgreen trays are key to ensuring your microgreens grow healthily and abundantly.
Differentiating Microgreen Trays
Microgreens trays are not all the same. Successful microgreen growing requires shallow trays specifically designed for the task. If the tray is too deep, it encourages root growth instead of leaf growth, which makes harvesting harder and can affect the flavor. The trays also need to be large enough for the seeds to spread out and grow without competing for space and nutrients. Furthermore, the flat finish ensures even water distribution and prevents the roots from growing around the edge of the cell.
Construction plays a significant role in the trays’ functionality. The best trays are made from food-safe, reusable, recyclable plastic. Strong enough to last several seasons, the perfect trays provide superior durability in comparison to cheaper, disposable models. While heavier duty trays might cost more, their robust construction pays for itself in the long run because it reduces the need for replacements.
Your Ultimate Guide to Affordable Microgreen Trays
There are several affordable microgreen trays available on the market that are perfect for beginners. Some of these include:
1. Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Trays: These sturdy, reusable trays are perfect for both commercial and residential growers. They are made in the USA from BPA-free polypropylene plastic. They’re suitable for hand watering or ebb and flow systems. With dimensions of 10”x20”, they fit easily into standard grow lights and shelving.
2. True Leaf Market Growing Trays: Available in packs of five, these trays are perfect for large-scale microgreen growing. They’re excellent for beginners due to their simplicity and affordability. They are made of sturdy, strong plastic and have no holes, making them perfect for starting microgreens.
3. Handy Pantry Sprout Garden Three-Tray Sprouter: This compact sprouter is great for those with limited space. Its stylish, circular design comes with three trays for sprouting different varieties, and it’s easy to use and clean. It’s an excellent choice for beginners due to its simplicity and size.
4. GreenEase Microgreens Starter Trays: These trays are designed with beginners in mind, with a compact size perfect for small-scale growing. The unique transparent lid provides ample humidity, ensuring rapid germination and the growth of healthy microgreens. It also allows you to monitor your trays without disturbing the growing process.
5. Living Whole Foods Plant Growing Trays: These trays offer functionality and affordability. They are sturdy, durable, and perfect for growing a wide range of microgreens.
Practical Tips for Beginners
Choosing the perfect tray is just the first step in your microgreen growing journey. Here are some practical and affordable tips to aid you through the process:
– When starting, aim for small, manageable quantities. Try a few trays first before expanding to multiple varieties and larger quantities.
– Be sure to use fresh, quality seeds from a reputable supplier. The seed quality greatly influences the success of your microgreen cultivation.
– Use the right medium. Depending on the tray system you are using, you may want to experiment with soil-based mediums or hydroponic media.
– Keep your greens well-watered, but not waterlogged. Over-watering can lead to mold and other issues.
Incorporate Microgreens into Your Lifestyle
Once you’ve harvested your microgreens, you can enjoy them in various dishes. Sprinkle them on top of a salad, stir-fry, or pizza. Incorporate them into a smoothie or juice for extra nutritional value, or use them as a garnish for a beautiful, professional-looking touch. They add not only a vibrant color and texture, but also a burst of nutrition.
While the world is moving towards healthier and more sustainable lifestyle choices, microgreens have conveniently accelerated this process. With affordable microgreen trays, you can start off your home garden, enjoy fresh produce and also take a step further in the organic initiative. So whether you’re a culinary whiz, a green thumb, or just looking to start a new hobby, growing microgreens with affordable trays is a great place to start your sustainable living journey.
