Microgreens, petite versions of full-grown vegetables and herbs, are increasingly skyrocketing in popularity as a trendy addition for salads, soups, sandwiches, and even cocktails. Microgreens are not only foodie favorites but also home gardeners’ delights due to their simplicity of growing, low space requirement and quick harvest times. If you’re a beginner keen on venturing into the world of microgreens, this comprehensive guide is designed to take you through the whole process, simplifying the technical jargon and making it seamlessly enjoyable.
Understanding Microgreens
Microgreens are a young vegetable green stage between sprouts and baby leaf vegetables. They are harvested after the cotyledon stage when the first true leaves have just begun to form. They are usually about 1-3 inches tall and available in a variety of colors, textures, and flavors. The most popular varieties include radish, peas, arugula, amaranth, basil, beetroot, kale, broccoli, cilantro, and mustard.
Tools and Equipment
Before embarking on planting, you need to gather necessary tools and equipment. These may include:
- Microgreen seeds
- Growing trays
- Potting mix or hydroponic mat
- A water spray bottle
- A bright window or a grow light
- A clear plastic dome or bag (optional)
Choosing Your Microgreen Seeds
When choosing microgreen seeds, opt for organic seeds specifically labeled for sprouting or microgreens. This ensures they are free from diseases and haven’t been treated with any chemicals. Broadly, microgreens can be grouped into mild and spicy categories.
Selecting a Grow Medium
Microgreens can be grown in soil or hydroponically. For beginners, soil is considered easier to manage. When selecting soil, choose a high-quality organic potting mix. Hydroponic microgreen production entails use of growing mats made from hemp, coconut fiber, wood fibers, or a combination.
Planting the Microgreen Seeds
Start by filling your growing tray 3/4 full with pre-moistened potting mix. Then, scatter your seeds over the soil’s surface as evenly as possible. No need to cover the seeds with soil; just gently press them into the soil with your hand to ensure they make good contact. If you’re using a hydroponic mat, simply sprinkle the seeds evenly over the mat.
Watering Your Microgreens
Using a spray bottle, thoroughly moisten the surface. For the first few days, you should keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. The spray bottle is a great tool to provide gentle moisture without disturbing the delicate seeds.
Providing the Proper Light and Temperature
Microgreens prefer a bright location. A south-facing window is ideal. If you do not have adequate natural light, a simple fluorescent or LED grow light works perfectly. For optimum germination, the room temperature should be between 16-21°C (60-70°F).
Germination Process
To create the dark, warm environment that seeds need to germinate, cover your tray with a clear plastic dome or simply use a second tray. Turn the tray upside down and place it over the first one. This cover should be removed as soon as you see the seeds have germinated.
Harvesting Your Microgreens
Harvesting usually takes place 7 to 14 days after planting. Using a sharp pair of scissors, cut the microgreens just above soil level. Avoid pulling the plants out from the soil to prevent soil from splattering on the greens. If you are growing in hydroponic mats, then simply cut the plant at the base, separating it from the mat.
Nutrition and Use
Microgreens are nutritional powerhouses, packed with a higher concentration of nutrients compared to their mature counterparts. Radish greens, for instance, are found to have 40 times more vitamin E and six times more vitamin C than mature radish.
In the kitchen, microgreens can be used to add color, texture, and flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Toss them into salads, sprinkle atop soups or use them as a garnish to amplify the visual appeal and nutritional profile of your meals.
There you have it, a mini crash course to starting your own microgreen garden at home. Remember, like any gardening venture, it may take a trial or two to nail down your system. Always stay patient, celebrate small wins, and happy growing.
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