If you’re venturing into the world of growing microgreens, one of the first steps is choosing the perfect tray. Microgreens trays come in various sizes, styles, and materials. Knowing what to look for when selecting a microgreens tray is necessary to ensure the healthy growth of your tiny greens. Let’s explore different types of trays, their attributes, and recommendations based on trusted user reviews.
Standard Commercial Grade Tray-Review and Recommendation
Commercially, growers prefer standard 10”x20” trays without holes. These trays prove to be robust, less prone to breakage due to stacking, and provide ample space for microgreen growth. One such reliable option is the Bootstrap Farmer Microgreens Tray. With its heavy-duty plastic build, this tray offers longevity, even with frequent usage. Its flat bottom sans ridges is ideal for encouraging even water distribution, facilitating optimal microgreen growth.
Bootstrap Farmer Microgreens Tray Characteristics
an Extra-strength, sturdy build: The Bootstrap Farmer Tray is made from robust plastic, enabling it to withstand heavy-duty use.
Free of BPA and Lead: This tray is crafted from material that does not contain harmful chemicals such as BPA and Lead, making it safe to grow edible greens.
Size: The standard size (10×20 inches) is ideal for most microgreens. It allows sufficient space in between for the greens to grow.
Greenhouse Microgreens Tray – Review and Suggestion
For home growers, opting for a slightly higher-sided greenhouse tray like the True Leaf Market Growing Tray could be beneficial. This tray retains water better, hence reducing watering time and facilitating better soil moisture level management.
True Leaf Market Growing Tray Characteristics
Solid Build: Made from polystyrene, this tray ensures durability and resilience.
Multi-use: The high-sided design allows the tray to be used for an array of activities, from seedling propagation to housing mature microgreens.
Size: Measuring 10×20 inches, this tray offers a substantial area for the growth of a variety of microgreens.
Tray with Holes – Review and Suggestion
A clear garden Germination Tray is the best option for growers who prefer trays with holes for better drainage and airflow. The clear garden Germination Tray allows the water to drain efficiently from the soil or the growing medium, reducing the occurrence of mold and fungus.
Clear Garden Germination Tray Characteristics
Premium Quality Material: This tray is crafted from high-quality, germ-free plastic, preventing contamination of your microgreens.
Holes for drainage and airflow: Holes in the tray allow extra water to drain out, maintaining the right moisture levels and preventing root rot.
Measurements: The standard size of 10×20 inches creates an ample growing surface while also fitting in most grow racks.
Self-Watering Tray – Review and Suggestion
When you want to minimize your watering chores, the Hydrofarm Active Aqua Grow Flow 2-Gal Controller w/Draining fittings makes an excellent option. This self-watering tray maintains the ideal humidity levels needed for microgreens by watering them directly from the bottom.
Hydrofarm Active Aqua Grow Flow 2-Gal Controller Characteristics
Automatic watering: Once set up, this system will automatically water your microgreens from the bottom, maintaining ideal moisture levels.
Sturdy build: This watering tray is robust and durable, designed to withstand the test of time.
Size: This tray system also follows the 10×20 inch standard, perfect for growing a sizable batch of microgreens.
Deciding on the best tray for growing your microgreens depends largely on your individual preferences. Consider the extent to which you’re willing to maintain moisture levels, how regularly you can water your greens, and the sheer volume of microgreens you intend to grow. Choosing the right tray ensures your microgreens have the best conditions to thrive and reach their maximum potential.
Whether you choose a standard commercial grade tray, greenhouse tray, tray with holes, or a self-watering tray, ensure it is of high quality, sturdy, non-toxic, and the right size for your growing needs. All our reviewed trays follow these standards, therefore making excellent choices for both commercial growers and home gardening enthusiasts. Choose the right tray and enjoy the lush, abundant growth of microgreens right at your home.
