Growing microgreens can provide a great source of nutrition in a small amount of space. Delicious, nutritious and hearty, these plants are simple to grow and can make great additions to many different dishes. With our detailed guide, you’ll be able to cultivate your own tiny greens at home in no time.
Microgreens are the shoots of vegetables such as beetroot, peas, rocket and radish, harvested just after the first leaves have developed. Known for their vibrant colors and punchy flavors, they are often used as a garnish or salad ingredient. Microgreens can be up to nine times richer in vitamins and nutrients than mature greens.
Firstly, let’s explore what you will need to start growing microgreens in your house.
Materials Needed
- Seedling Trays: Choose an organic-based compost, or cocoa peat growing mix for filling your seedling trays. The hemp mat or peat moss mats would also work fine.
- Seeds: Microgreens can be grown from any kind of vegetable or herb seeds. Popular choices usually include broccoli, radish, peas, beetroot, basil, dill, and more.
- Sprayer: A handheld sprayer can help in lightly watering the seeds without dislodging them.
- Light Source: For successful cultivation, your seedlings need access to light. A windowsill with plenty of natural light works best. However, in winter or areas with less sunshine, a grow light can come in handy.
- Heat Mat: It can prove beneficial in speeding up the germination process.
Procedure
Step 1: Choose and Soak Your Seeds
The first step in sprouting your own microgreens is to choose and soak your seeds. While this isn’t necessary for all types of seeds, for bigger seeds it can help to speed up the germination process. Simply soak the seeds overnight and then drain the water.
Step 2: Prepare Your Trays
You’ll then need to prepare your trays. Start by washing your trays thoroughly with warm soapy water, and then fill your tray with about an inch-and-a-half of soil or your chosen growing medium. Don’t pack it down too firmly – you want the roots to be able to penetrate easily.
Step 3: Sow Your Seeds
Spread your seeds evenly across the surface of the soil. They should be close but not touching. The goal is to have as many plants as possible without overcrowding. After that, lightly press seeds into the soil using your hand or a small board.
Step 4: Cover the Seeds
After sowing, you need to cover the seeds. However, not with soil. Instead, you can place another tray on top or use a black-out dome to block light.
Step 5: Water Your Seeds
Using your spray bottle, you should now water your seeds. The soil should be kept damp but not soaking.
Step 6: The Germination Process
The next step involves waiting for the seeds to germinate. This is where the covering of the seeds plays a key part. By denying the seedlings light, we encourage them to push upwards, searching for light. This helps root development and thus, a stronger plant is born.
Step 7: Uncover the Seedlings
Once you see that your germinated greens have significantly pushed the cover tray upwards, you can remove the cover. They are now ready for some light and will soon start photosynthesizing.
Step 8: Continue to Water Your Plants
You should then continue to water your plants on a daily basis, ensuring the soil remains damp.
Step 9: Harvesting
The final step is harvesting. When the plants reach a height of 1 to 3 inches and have their first pair of true leaves, they’re ready to be harvested.
To harvest the microgreens, you can use a pair of kitchen scissors to cut the shoot just above the soil line. The tiny greens can then be washed and eaten immediately for the best flavor and nutritional content.
Tips to Remember
- Certain plants like sunflower, chickpea, and pea grow well if you soak their seeds in water 12-24 hours prior to planting.
- Avoid overwatering as it can cause mold to form and inhibit growth.
- Ensure your microgreens receive plenty of light post-germination. Providing 12-16 hours daily light should be sufficient.
- Minimize touching your greens directly as they are delicate and can be easily damaged.
Growing microgreens offers a fun and rewarding way to stay sustainable and promote healthy eating. Plus, watching your tiny seeds grow into beautiful, delicious green shoots provides an unbeatable satisfaction. So why not get started today and see how easy it is to grow your own microgreens at home?
