When considering a venture into the world of microgreens, the type of tray you choose can have a profound impact on your success. In this comprehensive review, we will guide you through some of the best microgreens trays suitable for beginners. We will delve into various tray features, benefits, and how to effectively utilize them.
Let’s start with some key terms. Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are approximately 1–3 inches (2.5–7.5 cm) tall. These tiny edible greens have an intense aromatic flavor and concentrated nutrient content and come in a variety of colors and textures. Microgreens are not the same as sprouts – sprouts are newly germinated seeds that are eaten root, seed and all while microgreens have been allowed to grow for a week or two and then harvested above the soil line.
Choosing the ideal microgreens tray is a crucial first step in setting yourself up for victory on your horticultural journey. Here are a few options that stand out from the crowd, offering simplicity and high functionality to novices.
1. Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Trays:
Bootstrap Farmer 1020 trays are often celebrated for their durability and strength. These trays are created with food-safe plastic, ensuring no harmful chemicals seep into your microgreens. They often come in a set that includes a flat tray, humidity dome, and fitted mesh for easy drainage. Some of their key features are:
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Heavy-duty design: The structural integrity of these trays is commendable, as they are UV-resistant and virtually unbreakable. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, boiler rooms, and even the clumsiest of gardeners.
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Excellent water drainage: The fitted mesh insert that comes with the design ensures the roots of your microgreens neither drown nor dry out. It allows for good airflow, which ensures the health and productivity of your sprouting microgreens.
2. True Leaf Market Microgreens Growing Trays:
True Leaf Market is a respected name in the microgreens industry. Their products, including the Microgreens Growing Trays, are crafted with care for beginners and experts alike.
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Size variety: These trays are available in different sizes (half size, full size), providing versatility to grow microgreens based on your needs.
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No drainage holes: A unique feature of these trays is that they do not have drainage holes. This feature is useful for indoor growing where water leakage can be a nuisance.
3. Urban Farm- Microgreens Grow Trays:
The Urban Farm- Microgreens Grow Trays are lauded for their smart design and high functionality.
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Built-in channels: These channels ensure that water is evenly distributed, promoting even growth for your microgreens and reducing the risk of overwatering.
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High-Quality BPA Free material: These trays are made with BPA-free polypropylene plastic, ensuring the safety of your microgreens.
4. Hydrofarm Jump Start CK64060 Hot House with Heat Mat, Tray, 72 Cell pack, and 7″ Dome
This kit from Hydrofarm Jump Start is an all-in-one solution for those beginning their microgreens adventure.
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All-in-One setup: This kit includes everything a beginner needs for an optimal growing experience, including heat mats for temperature control, a slim 7″ dome for humidity control, and 72 cells for planting different microgreens.
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Excellent for germination: This design is not only excellent for microgreens, but also for germination and rooting of cuttings.
5. Living Whole Foods 10 Plant Growing Trays (WITH Drain Holes)
Lastly, the Living Whole Foods 10 Plant Growing Trays offer great utility for your microgreens cultivation. Some of the features include.
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Drain Holes: Given its optimal drainage system, this tray prevents waterlogged soils and ensures a healthier root system.
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Flexibility: These trays can be used to grow larger quantities, up to 10 plants, and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor setups.
Making a choice among these varied options can seem daunting, but with time, you will find the tray that best suits your unique growing circumstances. Factors like your available space, your choice of microgreens, watering routine, and indoor or outdoor setup, can play a key role in determining the ideal tray for effective microgreens growth.
Finally, it’s worth noting that many successful microgreens farmers often experiment with a few trays before settling on their go-to. Consider trialing a few and deciding which features best meet your needs. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and keep planting, as the rewards of harvesting your own fresh, nutritious microgreens are plentiful and satisfying.
Once you move past the beginner phase, you might want to diversify your growth mediums and choose tray designs that facilitate this. But till then, these trays would work very well.
Remember, in the world of microgreens, persistence and patience are your best pals. Whether you’re growing these vibrant plants for your kitchen or trying to improve your gardening skill set, using the right equipment can go a long way to securing your success in the field. So, get your green thumbs ready, pick a tray from this list that best suits your needs, and jump headfirst into your gardening adventure.
