Microgreens are small, immature plants that are harvested just after they have sprouted and developed their first set of true leaves. They are typically grown in trays or containers and can be harvested in as little as one to two weeks after planting.
Microgreens are very small in size, usually only a few inches tall, and come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. They are popular as a garnish for salads, sandwiches, and other dishes, and are also used as a nutritious ingredient in smoothies, juices, and other health drinks.
Microgreens are known for their high nutrient density and are believed to contain up to 40 times the nutrients of their mature counterparts. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are considered to be a healthy addition to any diet.
They can be easily grown at home with minimal space and equipment. Growing microgreens at home is a fun and rewarding way to add fresh and nutritious greens to your diet. Here are the basic steps to grow microgreens at home:
Selecting Seeds and Preparing the Growing Medium
Choose high-quality microgreen seeds that are specifically labeled for microgreens. The seed quantity may vary depending on the type of microgreen and the tray size you're using. As a general guideline, you can use about 10-15 grams of seeds for a 40x60 cm tray or 2-3 grams of seeds for a smaller 20x30 cm tray.
Select a tray size that suits your needs.
A 40x60 cm tray is a common size for growing microgreens with grow lights, but you can also use smaller trays or even repurpose shallow containers as long as they have drainage holes. Prepare the growing medium by filling the tray with a thin layer (about 2-3 cm) of a suitable growing medium, such as a commercial microgreen mix, coconut coir, or potting soil. Moisten the medium evenly with water, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to mold growth and other issues.
Germinating Seeds
1. Sow the seeds evenly on the moist growing medium, aiming for a seed density of about 5-10 seeds per square centimeter. You can use a seed spreader or your fingers to distribute the seeds evenly.
2. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of medium or a humidity dome to help retain moisture and promote germination. This helps create a microclimate that encourages germination. You may want to keep the seeds in a dark environment for a few days. This can be easily achieved covering the microgreens trays with something that can block the sunlight.
3. Place the tray under the grow lights once the first sprouts appear, maintaining the recommended light intensity and duration for the specific type of microgreen. As a general guideline, most microgreens require around 12-16 hours of light per day.
4. Keep the growing medium consistently moist by watering from the bottom. Place the tray in a shallow tray of water and allow the medium to absorb the water through the drainage holes. Empty the excess water after 10-15 minutes to avoid overwatering. Monitor the temperature, humidity, and air circulation to create optimal growing conditions.
Care and Maintenance
1. Monitor the microgreens as they grow, checking for signs of nutrient deficiencies, diseases, or pests.
2. Maintain the optimal temperature, humidity, and air circulation throughout the growth cycle. Most microgreens thrive in temperatures between 18-25°C and humidity levels around 50-70%. Use a fan or open windows periodically to ensure proper air circulation.
3. Adjust the height of the grow lights as the microgreens grow to prevent leggy growth. Keep the lights about 20-25 cm above the microgreens to promote strong, compact growth.
4. As the microgreens grow, they will develop cotyledons (the first set of leaves) and then true leaves. These are the edible parts of microgreens and can be harvested when they reach the desired size and develop their first set of true leaves, usually around 2-3 cm in height.
Harvesting and Storage
Harvest the microgreens by using a pair of clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut them just above the soil level. Avoid pulling or tugging on the delicate stems, as this can damage the roots and affect the quality of the harvested microgreens.
Rinse the harvested microgreens gently with cold water to remove any soil or debris, and then pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Store the harvested microgreens in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and nutritional value. They can typically be stored for up to 5-7 days, but it's best to consume them as soon as possible for maximum flavour and nutritional benefits.
Compost the leftover growing medium and any unsuitable parts of the microgreens to minimise waste and promote sustainability.
Remember to monitor and adjust the growing conditions as needed, and practice proper harvesting and storage techniques to ensure the best results. Happy growing!