Growing your own microgreens is a wonderfully rewarding and simple endeavor. This indoor garden trend has taken the world by storm for a variety of reasons: the compact size of the plants, the quick growing process, the host of flavors they bring, and their incredible nutritional content.
Microgreens, the seedlings of herbs and vegetables, are harvested just after their first set of true leaves have appeared. Some common microgreens include basil, broccoli, chard, beet, mustard, and many others.
With the possibility of fresh and healthy microgreens at your disposal, you might be wondering how can you grow them at home? Follow this simple guide, which will help you set up your own indoor microgreen garden, utilizing simple techniques that any beginner gardener can use.
# Choosing Your Microgreens
Selecting which microgreens to grow largely depends on your personal taste preference. For example, if you love a hint of spice, radish or mustard greens might be a good fit for you. If you prefer a milder flavor, something like sunflower or buckwheat could be a better choice.
# Purchasing Seeds
It’s best to purchase seeds intended for microgreen cultivation. These seeds are untreated, and often come in larger quantities, as you’ll be sowing them densely. High-quality seed providers often offer a wide range of seeds, so you can try a variety.
# Preparing Your Container
When it comes to choosing a container, make sure it is at least 2 inches deep. A tray, Tupperware, or even a repurposed plastic container for takeaway food could be used. Regardless of the type of container chosen, ensure it has some holes on the bottom to allow the extra water to drain.
# Preparing the Soil
A sterile, soilless potting mix is the most reliable medium for growing microgreens. Peat moss, or coco peat with a mixture of compost or vermicompost, work great. Fill your container with this medium up to an inch or two from the top, making sure it’s firm but not overly compacted.
# Planting Your Seeds
Evenly spread the seeds over the top of the soil. Given their size, microgreens can be sown very densely which will result in a good yield. After sowing, cover them lightly with the prepared medium or use a spray bottle to mist over the top.
# Light and Temperature
Microgreens typically need at least four hours of direct sunlight per day, and should be kept in a place with a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re struggling with light, fluorescent or LED grow lights work well.
# Watering
Proper water management will make or break your microgreens. They need to be kept consistently moist; using a spray bottle can help maintain the right levels of moisture. Be wary; overwatering can lead to issues, including damping off, a type of fungal disease.
# Harvesting Your Microgreens
Usually, within 7 to 14 days, your microgreens will be ready for harvest. Cut them just above the soil line using a sharp pair of scissors. Rinse and dry them gently.
# Post Harvest
Once you harvest, make sure you empty out the growing medium and sanitize the container before starting a new batch. It’s important to rotate crops to prevent the buildup of diseases.
# The Benefits of Indoor Gardening with Microgreens
Growing microgreens indoors is not only an exciting endeavor but also offers numerous benefits. For starters, it’s very cost-effective – the seeds are relatively inexpensive, especially considering how many greens you’ll get from them.
Food security is another considerable advantage of growing your own microgreens; you have your supply of fresh, nutritious greens at your disposal. You also reduce your carbon footprint by eliminating the transport and packaging of store-brought greens.
In summary, growing your microgreens is easy, affordable, eco-friendly, and healthy. So what are you waiting for? Start setting up your microgreen garden today and revel in the culinary delights it brings.
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