Microgreens have taken the culinary world by storm, and indoor gardening allows anyone to grow these nutrient-dense greens year-round. In order to cultivate these versatile tiny plants, certain tools can make the process significantly easier. Here are the top tools that will help you set up and maintain a flourishing indoor microgreens garden.
Growing Trays
Microgreens need a flat, shallow area to grow, and growing trays perfectly fulfill this criteria. These trays come in a variety of sizes, and some even have drainage holes to prevent water stagnation. The Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Trays, available in regular and extra strength, are ideal for growing microgreens. They’re durable, designed for multi-season use, and are perfect for both indoor and outdoor gardening.
Seed Dispenser
A seed dispenser simplifies and quickens the process of sowing. Microgreens’ tiny seeds can be difficult to distribute evenly by hand, but a seed dispenser like the Pro Series Jab Planter eliminates this problem. This tool allows you to create holes at your preferred depth, drop in the seeds and cover them all in one motion, ensuring an even and efficient sowing process.
Grow Lights
When it comes to indoor gardening, light is a critical factor. Microgreens need sufficient light to sprout and grow, and a grow light can supplement any lack of natural light. The Phlizon 1200W LED Plant Grow Light stands out for its energy-efficient full spectrum light that includes both red and blue light, crucial for plant growth. The light features adjustable height settings and programmable on/off times to simulate a natural light cycle.
Soil or Hydroponic Medium
Soil is an essential part of any garden, and that includes your indoor microgreens garden. However, since these plants only need support and moisture, hydroponics can be a viable alternative to traditional soil. The Espoma SS8 8-Quart Organic Seed Starter is an excellent choice for soil, blending peat moss and perlite for good moisture retention and aeration. For hydroponic enthusiasts, the General Hydroponics Rapid Rooter is a preferred choice, providing a biodegradable option that is rich in nutrients.
pH meter
Maintaining the right pH level is crucial for your microgreens to grow well. Both soil and water can have their pH levels tested to ensure the best growing conditions. The Bluelab PENSOILPH pH Pen for Soil, Coco, Rockwool and Solution is a reliable tool, providing accurate pH levels, and it’s waterproof and portable.
Temperature and Humidity Gauge
Microgreens are sensitive to their environment, so monitoring the conditions inside your indoor garden is key. Both temperature and humidity can affect their growth rate. The ThermoPro TP50 Indoor Thermometer and Hygrometer is a top choice with a wide temperature and humidity range and high accuracy, ensuring you can provide the optimal growing environment.
Watering Can
Watering is an essential part of microgreens cultivation, and a watering can with a narrow spout is ideal. One worth considering is the Dr.meter S10 Soil Moisture Sensor Meter, which is not just a watering can, but also has the ability to measure soil moisture levels, ensuring your greens receive the perfect amount of water.
Pruning Scissors
Once your microgreens have grown, you need to harvest them, and a pair of precision pruning scissors is an indispensable tool. The VIVOSUN 6.5 Inch Gardening Hand Pruner Pruning Shear with Straight Stainless Steel Blades is an excellent choice. Its zinc alloy handle and stainless steel blades ensure durability and precision, making harvesting your microgreens a breeze.
Microgreen Seeds
Obviously, you can’t start an indoor microgreens garden without seeds. True Leaf Market MicroGreens offers a wide range of non-GMO, organic microgreen seeds, from common varieties like broccoli, radish, and kale to more exotic options like amaranth and shiso.
Books
A book on microgreens can provide a heap of useful information, tips, techniques, etc. “Microgreens: How to Grow Nature’s Own Superfood” by Fionna Hill is a comprehensive guide to growing microgreens. It provides step-by-step instructions for 35 different microgreens, making it an invaluable tool for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
These tools will significantly ease your journey into the world of indoor microgreens gardening, offering aids to cultivate, maintain, and harvest your crops with minimal hassle and maximum yields. A little investment in these tools can bring about a hefty return in the form of fresh, home-grown, nutrient-packed microgreens.
