Microgreens have gained immense popularity amongst gardening enthusiasts and food enthusiasts alike due to their nutritional value, robust and varied flavors, and aesthetic appeal as they add color and texture to meals. These tiny edible plants, harvested just after their first few true leaves have developed, are relatively easy to grow indoors any time of the year. To help beginners start their own microgreen garden, here are some practical and efficient tips.
The first factor to consider is selecting the right seeds. Microgreens can encompass a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and even edible flowers. Some popular choices include radish, peas, beetroot, arugula, basil, and sunflower, all of which are rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, iron, and antioxidants. Go for organic, non-treated seeds for healthier and safe-to-eat microgreens.
After you have your seeds, it’s all about choosing the right growing medium. Microgreens can be grown in several mediums, such as soil, coconut coir, or a hydroponic growing mat. Soil remains the most popular choice due to its widespread availability and inexpensive cost. However, other mediums could provide a more controlled environment for the growth of your greens.
An equally important process is preparing and planting your seeds. To begin, fill your tray with around 1-2 inches of your selected growing medium. Scatter your seeds in an even layer across the surface – don’t worry about over-seeding, as microgreens can grow in close quarters. Then, lightly press the seeds into the soil and mist them with a spray bottle. This process ensures your seeds have a firm contact with the soil, encouraging better germination.
After planting, it is crucial to keep the environment moist and dark for better germination. Cover your tray with another tray or a piece of cardboard – this blocks out light and keeps the humidity high. Every day, uncover your tray to mist your seeds, then replace the cover. After about 3 to 7 days, depending on the variety of microgreen, your seeds should begin to sprout.
Once the seedlings have germinated and start to push against their cover, it’s time to remove it and introduce them to light. Place your tray somewhere it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight, or under a grow light if sunlight isn’t readily available. Position the light source about 1 foot above the tray to prevent the seedlings from reaching or “stretching” towards it, which can lead to straggly, weak microgreens.
Watering is a crucial aspect of microgreen care. Microgreens prefer a somewhat humid environment. Water from the bottom to encourage strong root growth and prevent mold or fungus. This can be done by pouring water into an extra tray and setting your microgreen tray inside. The growing mat or soil will absorb the water up towards the roots. Avoid watering the leaves as this can cause rot.
While growing, it’s important to monitor the indoor climate. Microgreens prefer a temperature between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Too much heat can dry out the trays, while too cold of a temperature can slow germination and growth. Additionally, airflow is key. A fan lightly blowing on the greens can strengthen the stems and minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
The moment when your microgreens are ready for harvest will largely depend on the type you are growing, but generally, it is when the first set of true leaves appear, usually 7-14 days after planting. To harvest, simply snip the microgreens just above the soil line. Restaurants usually use them on the same day of harvest to take advantage of their freshness and nutrients.
In terms of pest control, microgreens are typically pest-resistant due to their short growth period. Still, if you notice any small insects, you can treat them with organic pest control methods such as introducing beneficial insects or using an organic insecticidal soap spray.
Finally, be prepared for a continuous harvest. Microgreens are a one-harvest crop, meaning that once you cut them, they do not grow back. Therefore, if you want a continuous supply of microgreens, you’ll need to plant new seeds every 1-2 weeks. This practice, called succession planting, ensures a fresh supply of nutritious, crunchy microgreens at all times.
By following these microgreen growing tips, beginners can ensure they cultivate a healthy and continuous crop. These vivid, nutritionally-packed greens are easy to grow, have a quick harvest period, and can add a splash of color and a burst of flavor to many meals making them a worthwhile addition to your horticultural efforts.
